√ 10 Must-Try Shepherd’s Pie Recipes

Cozy up with a comforting classic! This collection of 10 Must-Try Shepherd’s Pie Recipes offers a delicious variety of takes on the traditional Shepherd’s Pie. From classic recipes using lamb or beef to creative twists incorporating ground turkey or even vegetarian options, you’re sure to find the perfect Shepherd’s Pie recipe to satisfy your cravings. Get ready to indulge in a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion gathering. Explore these 10 Must-Try Shepherd’s Pie Recipes and discover your new favorite comfort food!

Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious and comforting Shepherd’s Pie. From preparing the fluffy mashed potato topping to creating a rich and flavorful meat filling, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make this classic dish.

Ingredients

Mashed Potatoes

1 lb red russet potatoes (enough to mash and cover your pie)
¾ cup sour cream
Garlic and onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste

Meat Mixture

1 lb ground beef or ground lamb
1 yellow onion
1 tbsp minced garlic

Gravy

2-2.5 tbsp butter
2-2.5 tbsp flour
1 Guinness
1 tsp each of thyme, oregano, and rosemary
1.5 tsp salt and black pepper
1 can diced tomatoes
½ bag peas and carrots

Topper

Cheddar cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into one-inch chunks. Add them to a pot of salted boiling water. Boil for at least 8 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Make the Mashed Potatoes: Mash the cooked potatoes. Add sour cream and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper) to taste.
Brown the Meat: In a cast iron skillet, brown the ground beef or lamb. Add diced onion and salt to preference.
Sauté Garlic: Once the meat is fully browned, add the minced garlic. Cook until any excess water evaporates, leaving only the rendered fat. Remove the meat mixture from the skillet, leaving the grease behind.
Make the Roux: Add butter to the skillet (2.5 tbsp if there’s not much fat left, 2 tbsp if there’s a bit). Once melted, whisk in the flour constantly to create a roux.
Add Guinness and Thicken: Carefully whisk in the Guinness (be mindful of steam). Quickly whisk in the diced tomatoes and herbs (thyme, oregano, and rosemary). The mixture should thicken rapidly. Turn off the heat.
Combine Meat and Vegetables: Return the meat mixture to the skillet. Stir until coated in the gravy. Add the drained peas and carrots, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
Assemble the Pie: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a casserole dish (or leave it in the skillet). Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
Bake and Serve: Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!

Easy One-Pan Skillet Shepherd’s Pie

This recipe provides a simplified approach to making a comforting Shepherd’s Pie, all in one skillet. It uses readily available ingredients and minimizes cleanup.

Ingredients:

2 lbs. Beef Stew Meat Cubes
1 package Frozen Mixed Vegetables, thawed
1 Yellow Onion, diced
2 packages Brown Gravy Mix
1 package Instant Potatoes (your favorite brand)
1 small package Shredded Cheddar Cheese
3 Tbsps. Butter
1 Tsp. Minced Garlic
1 tsp. Onion Powder
Salt and Black Pepper to taste

Instructions:

Brown the beef and vegetables: In a large, deep skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned halfway. Add the thawed mixed vegetables and continue cooking until both the beef and vegetables are cooked through.
Make the gravy: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the onion powder, salt, pepper, brown gravy mix, and 1/2 cup of water. Mix well and cook until the gravy thickens. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Prepare the mashed potatoes and assemble: Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to the package directions. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Melt the cheese and serve: Return the skillet to the stovetop over medium-low heat, covered, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Turn off the heat and serve immediately.

Hearty Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious and comforting Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie. It features a rich lentil and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

For the Topping:

2 tablespoons kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered (about 3 large)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup packed grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese or vegetarian Parmesan (optional)
Salt and freshly ground white pepper, to taste
Nutmeg, to taste
1/2 cup bread crumbs (optional)

For the Filling:

3/4 cup French lentils, washed
3 1/2 cups vegetable broth
4 sprigs thyme
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
4 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, diced
8 ounces sliced shiitake mushrooms (or button, cremini, or a mix)
1 large leek, white part only, thinly sliced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced small
2 cloves garlic, minced
Freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 tablespoons flour
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
1-2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes: Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
Start the Filling: Simmer lentils, thyme, and 2 cups of broth until lentils are tender (about 20 minutes). Remove thyme sprigs and set lentils aside.
Make the Mashed Potato Topping: Melt butter with milk. Rice or mash the cooked potatoes. Combine potatoes with the butter mixture and sour cream. Stir in ½ cup Parmesan (if using), salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Sauté Vegetables for the Filling: Sauté onion in butter until softened. Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown. Add leeks, carrots, and garlic; cook until tender.
Finish the Filling: Stir in tomato paste, then flour. Add the remaining broth, cooked lentils, and peas. Cook until thickened. Season with lemon juice.
Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the filling to a casserole dish. Top with mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs (if using), and remaining Parmesan. Bake for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving.

Classic Shepherd’s Pie

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a comforting and delicious Shepherd’s Pie. From preparing the fluffy mashed potato topping to creating a rich and savory meat filling, this classic dish is sure to be a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

4-5 large potatoes
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling:

1 lb ground beef
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup chopped onion
3 tablespoons butter
2 cups beef or vegetable stock
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

Boil the peeled potatoes until tender. Drain and transfer to a mixing bowl.
Add butter and parsley. Mash until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Prepare the Filling:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease and set aside.
Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the onion and carrots, and cook until softened.
Stir in the flour to form a paste (a roux). Gradually whisk in the beef or vegetable stock until smooth.
Add the thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and rosemary. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the frozen peas and cooked ground beef. Simmer for another 2 minutes.

Assemble and Bake:

Transfer the meat mixture to a medium-sized baking dish. Let cool slightly for 10-15 minutes.
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the filling, ensuring it’s completely covered.
Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a comforting and delicious Shepherd’s Pie. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you’ll be able to make this classic dish with ease.

Ingredients

2 lbs Ground Beef
1/2 Chopped Onion
1 small bag Frozen Peas and Carrots
1 small bag Frozen Corn
1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
8-10 Potatoes (for mashed potatoes)
Flour
Beef Broth
Shredded Cheese (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and mash them. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Brown the ground beef. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.
Sauté the onions. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef and cook until softened.
Create the base. Sprinkle flour over the meat and onion mixture and stir to combine.
Simmer the meat mixture. Add Worcestershire sauce and enough beef broth to almost cover the meat. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Add more broth if needed to prevent drying.
Add the vegetables. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots and corn.
Assemble the pie. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a baking dish.
Top with mashed potatoes. Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
Bake. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for about 30 minutes, or until bubbly and the mashed potatoes are lightly browned. Broil for the last few minutes if needed for a crispier topping.
Add cheese (optional). Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and return to the oven until melted.

Classic Shepherd’s Pie: A Comfort Food Staple

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious and comforting Shepherd’s Pie. From the savory beef and vegetable base to the creamy mashed potato topping, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
12 baby carrots, chopped
1/2 cup peas
1/2 cup corn
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1/3 tbsp thyme
1 clove garlic
1 cup beef broth

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

2 lbs potatoes, cubed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup milk
3 tbsp butter
1 cup cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preparing the Meat Filling:

In a Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened.
Drain any excess grease. Add the peas and corn, cooking until heated through. Melt in 2 tbsp butter, then stir in 2 tbsp flour, 1/3 tbsp thyme, and the minced garlic. Cook until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for a few minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Transfer the meat mixture to a Pyrex baking dish.

Preparing the Mashed Potato Topping:

Boil the cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water until fork-tender. Drain well.
Return the potatoes to the pot and mash until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, butter, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the meat filling in the baking dish.

Freezing and Baking:

At this point, you can freeze the Shepherd’s Pie for later. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-minute intervals, checking the internal temperature until it reaches 160°F (71°C).

Vegan Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

This recipe guides you through making a delicious and hearty vegan Shepherd’s Pie featuring a flavorful plant-based meat filling topped with creamy sweet potato mash. It’s easy to follow and perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

12 oz plant-based ground beef
1 medium carrot, chopped (or 1 cup frozen carrots)
1 cup chopped green or red bell pepper
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped portobello mushrooms
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp olive or avocado oil
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp dried or fresh parsley
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp ground coriander
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup vegetable broth
1 cup frozen sweet peas

For the Sweet Potato Topping:

1.5 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Dash of cinnamon
1 tbsp ghee or butter
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil, steam, or bake the sweet potatoes until tender, about 10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the potatoes cook, heat the oil in a large skillet. Sauté the onions for 1 minute, then add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Plant-Based Beef Filling

Add the plant-based ground beef to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the salt, pepper, coriander, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, rosemary, and parsley. Stir well. Add the frozen peas and vegetable broth. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the beef is fully cooked.

Step 4: Make the Sweet Potato Topping

Drain any excess water from the cooked sweet potatoes. In a blender, combine the potatoes, ghee (or butter), cinnamon, and chili powder. Blend until smooth, about 30-60 seconds. Be careful when handling hot ingredients.

Step 5: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie

Transfer the plant-based meat filling to a 10-inch skillet or baking dish. Spread the sweet potato topping evenly over the filling.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Classic Comfort: Cottage Pie (Shepherd’s Pie)

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious and comforting Cottage Pie (or Shepherd’s Pie, if you’re using lamb). With a flavorful meat and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

1 1/2 lbs. russet potatoes
1/4 cup half and half
4 tbsp. butter
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
1 egg yolk

For the Broth Mixture:

2 tsp. tomato paste
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

For the Filling:

2 tbsp. canola oil
1 1/2 lbs. lean ground beef
1 cup yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables, steamed

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F.
Boil potatoes for fifteen minutes, drain, and place in a large mixing bowl. Add half and half, butter, salt, pepper, and egg yolk. Beat with a hand mixer until smooth. Cover and set aside.
In a measuring cup, whisk together tomato paste, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Set aside.
Heat oil in a skillet. Add beef, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned and onions are translucent. Sprinkle with flour and thoroughly combine.
Add broth mixture to the skillet and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add mixed vegetables. Spread evenly into 11” x 7” glass baking dish.
Top with mashed potatoes and smooth with a rubber spatula. Place on a cookie sheet and bake for twenty-five minutes until golden-brown. Allow to cool for fifteen minutes.
Serve and enjoy!

Classic Comfort Food: A Hearty Cottage Pie Recipe

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious and satisfying cottage pie. From browning the ground beef to creating a creamy mashed potato topping, each step is explained clearly to ensure a successful outcome.

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

2 pounds ground beef
2 tablespoons Herbs de Provence
1 tablespoon doubanjiang (broad bean paste)
2 tablespoons Liquid Aminos
4 tablespoons tomato paste
2 bags frozen mixed vegetables

For the Potato Topping:

2 pounds potatoes (about 4 medium-sized)
2 egg yolks
1 tablespoon butter (salted or unsalted)
Parmesan cheese (optional)
French Fry Seasoning (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Filling: Brown the ground beef and season with Herbs de Provence. Use a paper towel to absorb excess grease.

2. Enhance the Flavor: Once the beef is cooked, add liquid aminos, doubanjiang, and tomato paste. The moisture from the frozen vegetables will provide ample liquid for the filling.

3. Simmer and Prepare the Potatoes: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and let the mixture simmer while you prepare the potatoes. Chop the potatoes into evenly sized pieces and boil them until fork-tender. Drain and mash the potatoes, then mix in two egg yolks.

4. Assemble and Bake: Spread the meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish. For a smooth potato topping, coat the back of a spoon with butter and use it to spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the filling. Season the potatoes with french fry seasoning, if desired. Create decorative ridges in the potatoes with a fork and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if using. Bake uncovered at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the cottage pie rest briefly before serving. This comforting dish is perfect for a family meal.

Classic Shepherd’s Pie: A Step-by-Step Recipe

This recipe provides a detailed guide to creating a delicious and comforting Shepherd’s Pie, featuring a rich lamb and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

Meat Mixture

1 lb ground lamb
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup onions
2 teaspoons dried parsley
1 teaspoon rosemary
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
4 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup fresh carrots, finely diced
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup frozen corn
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Mashed Potatoes

1 kg russet potatoes, diced
75 gm unsalted butter
100 ml whole milk
100 ml heavy cream
4 cloves garlic
4 tbsp woody herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage), finely ground
4 tbsp soft herbs (parsley, chives, dill), finely chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened. Add ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Enhance the Flavor: Add Worcestershire sauce and garlic to the lamb mixture. Cook for 1 minute. Stir in flour and tomato paste until well combined.
Simmer with Vegetables: Add diced carrots and double the amount of beef broth (not listed in the original ingredients, but crucial for the recipe). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the liquid is reduced and carrots are tender. Add frozen peas and corn towards the end of the simmering process.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Set the meat mixture aside.
Boil the Potatoes: Boil diced potatoes until fork-tender. Drain well.
Make the Herbed Mash: In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic and woody herbs. Add milk and cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in soft herbs. Rice or mash the cooked potatoes and combine with the herbed cream mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the meat mixture into a 9×9 inch baking dish. Spread evenly. Pipe or spread the mashed potatoes over the meat, ensuring full coverage.
Bake: Place the baking dish (optionally on a baking sheet to catch spills) in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for 15 minutes before serving.

History of Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie, a comforting dish of minced meat topped with mashed potatoes, has a rich history rooted in frugality and resourcefulness. Contrary to popular belief, its origins aren’t tied to shepherds tending their flocks. The name itself provides a clue to its humble beginnings.

The term “shepherd’s pie” specifically refers to pies made with lamb or mutton. This dates back to the late 1700s in Scotland and northern England. Following the introduction of the potato to the British Isles, cottagers and working families began using this readily available and affordable starch to create a crust for savory pies filled with leftover roasted meat, often mutton, the most accessible meat for them. This clever combination created a complete and satisfying meal.

If the pie is made with beef, it’s technically called cottage pie. However, today, the term “shepherd’s pie” is often used generically for both, particularly in North America. The distinction, while historically accurate, has become blurred over time. Regardless of the name, the essential components remain the same: a flavorful meat base topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes.

Nutritional Content and Benefits of Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie, a comforting classic, offers more than just a delicious taste. It’s a surprisingly nutrient-rich dish, packing a good source of protein from the ground meat, whether it’s lamb, beef, or a plant-based alternative. This protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting a healthy immune system, and maintaining energy levels.

The layer of mashed potatoes provides carbohydrates, offering a readily available source of energy. Potatoes are also a good source of potassium, an important electrolyte for maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure. Furthermore, they contribute vitamin C, an antioxidant that plays a vital role in immune function and skin health.

The vegetable layer, often including carrots, peas, and corn, introduces additional vitamins and minerals. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for eye health. Peas provide fiber, promoting healthy digestion, and vitamin K, important for blood clotting. Corn contributes folate, crucial for cell growth and development.

While the nutritional content can vary based on specific ingredients and portion size, shepherd’s pie can be a balanced and satisfying meal. By choosing leaner meats and incorporating a variety of vegetables, you can further enhance its nutritional value and enjoy the many benefits this classic dish offers.

Tips for Choosing Quality Ground Lamb

Choosing the right ground lamb can significantly impact the flavor of your shepherd’s pie. Look for ground lamb with a rich, red color. Avoid meat that appears grayish or dull. The fat should be creamy white, not yellowed.

Freshness is key. Check the “sell by” or “use by” date. Ground lamb should have a pleasant, slightly gamey aroma. Avoid any meat with a sour or off-putting smell. If possible, purchase your ground lamb from a butcher who can grind it fresh for you.

Consider the lean-to-fat ratio. While some fat adds flavor and moisture, too much can make your shepherd’s pie greasy. A ratio of 80% lean to 20% fat is a good starting point. You can always adjust this based on your preference.

Finally, consider the source of your ground lamb. Look for labels indicating pasture-raised or grass-fed lamb, as these options often have a more complex and robust flavor profile.