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Classic Shepherds Pie

Classic Shepherds Pie

The ultimate comfort food, Classic Shepherds Pie is a delightful mix of savory meat and creamy potatoes. Packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion, this easy weeknight dinner will have your family asking for seconds!
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: British
Calories: 475

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large sweet onion finely chopped
  • 1.5 medium carrots finely chopped
  • 1.5 pounds ground lamb
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup beef, lamb or chicken stock warmed
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 recipe Perfect Mashed Potatoes or 4 cups prepared mashed potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and carrots. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until they are soft but not browned.
  3. After the vegetables are soft, increase the heat to high. Add the ground lamb and cook until it is well-browned, stirring to break it apart.
  4. Once the meat is browned, stir in the tomato paste and Dijon mustard. Mix well to combine everything.
  5. Next, pour in the warmed stock. Reduce the heat to low, season generously with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
  6. Transfer the meat mixture to a 1½-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes.
  7. Brush the top of the mashed potatoes with the melted butter.
  8. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes. Look for a beautifully browned top.
  9. Finally, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Tip 1: You can substitute ground beef for the lamb.
  • Tip 2: Assemble up to two days in advance, cover and refrigerate.
  • Tip 3: To freeze, bake and cool completely, then cover and freeze for up to 2 months.