EASY SHEPHERD’S PIE
Are you craving a hearty and satisfying meal that brings warmth and comfort to your table? Look no further than Easy Shepherd’s Pie! This classic dish is a favorite among many, known for its flavorful combination of ground meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a delectable Shepherd’s Pie from scratch, providing step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure a successful outcome. So, get your apron ready and let’s dive into the world of Easy Shepherd’s Pie!
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Ingredients:
To create a scrumptious Easy Shepherd’s Pie, you will need the following ingredients:
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 1 ½ pounds ground lamb or beef | 1 ½ pounds |
| 1 onion, finely chopped | 1 onion, finely chopped |
| 2 carrots, diced | 2 carrots, diced |
| 1 cup frozen peas | 1 cup frozen peas |
| 2 cloves garlic, minced | 2 cloves garlic, minced |
| 2 tablespoons tomato paste | 2 tablespoons tomato paste |
| 1 cup beef or vegetable broth | 1 cup beef or vegetable broth |
| 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce |
| 1 teaspoon dried thyme | 1 teaspoon dried thyme |
| Salt and pepper, to taste | Salt and pepper, to taste |
| 4 cups mashed potatoes | 4 cups mashed potatoes |
| 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) | 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) | Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) |
Instructions:
Preparing the Filling
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add the ground lamb or beef. Cook until browned and crumbled, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, frozen peas, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes or until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the tomato paste, beef or vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Assembling the Shepherd’s Pie
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Transfer the filling into a deep baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling, spreading them with a spatula to create an even layer. You can also use a piping bag to create decorative patterns if desired.
- If you prefer a cheesy topping, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes turn golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Serving and Enjoying
Once your Easy Shepherd’s Pie is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Shepherd’s Pie hot, slicing it into generous portions for everyone to enjoy. This comforting dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad.
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