Comfort food at its finest—tender minced meat in a rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden.
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Serves: 6
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling:
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1 lb (450g) ground lamb (or beef for “Cottage Pie”)
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 carrots, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup frozen peas
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2 Tbsp tomato paste
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1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 cup beef or lamb stock
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1 tsp rosemary, chopped
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1 tsp thyme, chopped
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1 Tbsp flour (for thickening)
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2 Tbsp olive oil
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
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2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled & cubed
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¼ cup (60ml) milk
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2 Tbsp (30g) butter
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½ cup (50g) cheddar cheese, grated (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1 egg yolk (for extra richness, optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
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Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (~15 mins). Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Meat Filling:
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Heat oil in a large skillet. Sauté onions and carrots for 5 mins until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 min.
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Add ground lamb, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
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Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle flour over the meat and mix well.
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Pour in stock and simmer for 5-7 mins until thickened. Add peas and adjust seasoning.
3. Assemble & Bake:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing with a fork.
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Sprinkle cheese on top (if using) and brush with egg yolk for a golden finish.
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Bake for 20-25 mins until bubbling and golden.
4. Serve:
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Let cool for 5 mins, then garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Perfect Shepherd’s Pie:
✅ For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the meat filling.
✅ Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
✅ Crispy topping? Use a fork to create peaks before baking.
✅ Vegetarian version? Swap meat for lentils or mushrooms.
This hearty dish is pure comfort in every bite—ideal for chilly nights or family dinners!