why make this recipe
Classic Irish Shepherd’s Pie is warm and filling. It uses simple ingredients you likely have at home. You can make it any night of the week. If you like other hearty pies, try this Irish steak pie recipe for a different meat option.
introduction
This recipe is easy to make. It has savory meat and creamy mashed potatoes on top. Kids and adults both enjoy it. For a similar, easy casserole version, see this simple shepherd’s pie casserole.
how to make Classic Irish Shepherd’s Pie
Follow the steps below in order. Cook the vegetables first. Brown the meat next. Mix meat with broth and sauce. Top with mashed potatoes and bake. For a different comfort dish idea, you can look at a pot pie pasta twist like this chicken pot pie pasta.
Ingredients :
- 1 ½ lbs ground lamb (or ground beef)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- ¾ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and milk)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and diced carrots until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground lamb or beef and dried thyme. Cook until browned (7-10 minutes), breaking apart the meat.
- Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; simmer on low for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Meanwhile, mash boiled potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy yet firm.
- In a baking dish, layer the meat mixture and top with mashed potatoes. Create peaks for crispiness.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
how to serve Classic Irish Shepherd’s Pie
Serve hot from the oven. Let it rest 5 minutes before scooping. Cut into squares or spoon onto plates. Add a simple green salad or steamed greens on the side.
how to store Classic Irish Shepherd’s Pie
Cool to room temperature before storing. Cover and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, about 15-20 minutes. You can freeze in a covered dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Classic Irish Shepherd’s Pie
- Use ground lamb for a traditional taste. Beef works well too.
- Drain excess fat after browning the meat.
- Make sure the mashed potatoes are firm so the top crisps in the oven.
- Create peaks on the potato top for extra golden edges.
- Taste the meat mix and adjust salt before baking.
variation (if any)
- Add a splash of red wine to the meat mix for depth.
- Stir in a little grated cheddar into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy top.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground beef instead of lamb?
A: Yes. Ground beef makes a good shepherd’s pie and is easy to find.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
A: Yes. Make the meat and potatoes a day ahead. Assemble and bake when ready.
Q: Can I skip the peas?
A: Yes. You can leave them out or add other vegetables like corn or green beans.
Q: How do I get a crispy top?
A: Make the mashed potatoes slightly firm and bake until the peaks brown.
Conclusion
For a traditional take and more notes on the classic dish, see Traditional Irish Shepherd’s Pie on Robust Recipes.
Classic Irish Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and diced carrots until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground lamb or beef and dried thyme. Cook until browned (7-10 minutes), breaking apart the meat.
- Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; simmer on low for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Meanwhile, mash boiled potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy yet firm.
- In a baking dish, layer the meat mixture and top with mashed potatoes. Create peaks on the potato top for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.