As the golden leaves of autumn start to fall, there’s something inherently comforting about gathering around the kitchen table to enjoy a hearty Shepherd’s Pie. This classic dish, with its rich layers of savory ground beef, mixed vegetables, and golden mashed potatoes, not only warms the stomach but also the heart. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe embodies the essence of comfort food and brings families together, creating cherished memories with every bite.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, boil the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with milk and butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onions, carrots, and peas until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return the beef to the skillet, and stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them smoothly over the meat layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
- Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side of green peas for added comfort and nutrition.
Helpful Tips
- For a creamier mash, you can add more milk or even a bit of cream.
- Feel free to swap ground beef with ground lamb for a more traditional flavor.
- You can use frozen vegetables to save time and add a bit of variety.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Pairings
This Shepherd’s Pie pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted Brussel sprouts. A glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the rich flavors perfectly, adding an extra layer of indulgence to your meal.
Bringing this Shepherd’s Pie to your table means more than just serving dinner; it’s an opportunity to create lasting family memories. As you slice into the golden mashed potatoes and taste the comforting, savory layers beneath, you’ll understand why this recipe is a timeless favorite. Share your Shepherd’s Pie creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. We love seeing your delectable dishes! Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website, subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates, and follow us on social media for endless cooking inspiration.
