This Lamb Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and comforting dish, with tender lamb mixed with veggies under a golden layer of fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s filling and oh-so-satisfying!
You can’t go wrong with this dish on a chilly day. I love serving it with a side salad—balance, right? Plus, who doesn’t love a delicious pie that’s easy to make? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes. They’re perfect for mashing because of their starch content. For a healthier option, you can use sweet potatoes for a bit of sweetness.
Ground Lamb: While lamb is traditional, you can easily substitute it with ground beef or turkey for a different flavor. I often use half lamb and half beef for a nice blend!
Butter: If you’re looking to cut calories or dairy, you can swap butter with olive oil, or even vegan butter. It won’t impact the creaminess much in the mash.
Vegetables: Feel free to get creative! If you don’t have carrots, you can use zucchini or bell peppers. Frozen peas work great as a quick option too.
How Do I Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
The creamy mashed potatoes are a star in this recipe! Start by cooking the potatoes until they’re tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Ensure they’re cut into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- After draining, return the potatoes to the pot to steam off excess moisture.
- Add butter and milk (or cream) while they’re still hot, making it easier to achieve a smooth texture.
- Use a potato masher or a ricer to mash for the best results. Don’t overwork the potatoes; just mix until creamy for the perfect fluffiness!
How to Make Lamb Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 1/4 cup whole milk or cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Lamb Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground lamb
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup corn (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef or lamb broth
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lamb Shepherd’s Pie will take you about 15 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. That’s a total of around 40-45 minutes to make this comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Next, place the chopped potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil and let them cook until tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
2. Mashing the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return them to the pot. Add in 2 tablespoons of butter, a splash of milk, and season with salt and pepper. Mash everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Set this lovely mix aside for later!
3. Cooking the Lamb Filling:
While your potatoes are busy cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until softened and translucent. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Browning the Lamb:
Next, add the ground lamb into the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and crumbly. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it off to keep your dish lean.
5. Adding the Vegetables:
Stir in the diced carrots, peas, and corn (if using). Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened and warm.
6. Seasoning the Filling:
Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is combined.
7. Simmering the Mixture:
Pour the broth into the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook until most of the liquid has reduced, which should take about 10 minutes.
8. Assembling the Pie:
Now it’s time to combine everything! Transfer the lamb mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, with a spatula, spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the lamb layer, smoothing it out nicely.
9. Baking to Perfection:
Dot the top of the mashed potatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for extra flavor. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
10. Serving the Dish:
When it’s done, take the shepherd’s pie out of the oven, garnish with fresh thyme leaves, and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty and delicious Lamb Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative. Just peel, chop, and cook them in the same manner as regular potatoes. They’ll add a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color to your shepherd’s pie.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground lamb with a blend of lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef or lamb broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store your shepherd’s pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it! Just wrap it tightly and it should last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it either in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can make great additions. Just ensure they are chopped small and added to the filling during cooking for even texture.
