Image Credit : NatashasKitchen.com
Ingredients:
For the mashed potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Mashed Potatoes:
- Start by boiling the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Preparing the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Sprinkle the flour over the meat and vegetables, stirring well to combine.
- Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Stir in the peas and corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Assembling the Pie:
- Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top of the filling, spreading them out with a spatula.
- For an extra touch, use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the surface of the mashed potatoes.
4. Baking and Serving:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are lightly golden on top.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Scoop out generous portions onto plates and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of Shepherd’s Pie!
Conclusion: Congratulations! You’ve successfully crafted a mouthwatering Shepherd’s Pie that’s sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Share this cozy culinary adventure with friends and family, and relish in the joy of good food and great company!
