Easy Shepherds Pie Recipe

This Shepherd’s Pie recipe is a savory pie with a meat and vegetable gravy topped with creamy parmesan mashed potatoes. Shepperd’s Pie is a stunning and welcoming dish for the holiday table.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE POTATO TOPPING:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1” thick pieces
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream, warm
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely shredded
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 Tbsp butter, melted to brush the top
• 1 Tbsp Chopped parsley or chives, to garnish the top

INGREDIENTS FOR THE FILLING:

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef or ground lamb
• 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (1 cup)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 1 cups beef broth or chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 1/2 cups frozen vegetables of choice

Steps:

1. Prepare the Potato Topping:

• Place peeled and cut potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
• Boil until potatoes are fork-tender, then drain.
• Mash the potatoes and add warm heavy whipping cream, salt, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
• Mix until smooth and set aside.

2. Make the Filling:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add ground beef or lamb, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove excess fat if necessary.
• Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.
• Sprinkle flour over the meat mixture, stir well to combine, and cook for 2 minutes.
• Pour in red wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.
• Add broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir until well combined.
• Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens, then add frozen vegetables. Cook until vegetables are heated through.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Shepherd's Pie:

• Transfer the filling into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
• Spoon the mashed potato mixture over the filling, spreading it to cover the entire surface.
• Use a fork to create decorative patterns on the potato topping.
• Brush the top with melted butter for a golden finish.

4. Bake:

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
• Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Shepherd's Pie!