Shepherd’s pie

Here’s a clear and classic recipe for Shepherd’s Pie, a comforting dish with a savory meat base and creamy mashed potato topping:

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🍽️ Classic Shepherd’s Pie

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb (or beef for cottage pie)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp thyme (dried or fresh)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1–2 tbsp oil for cooking

For the topping:

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)

• 2 tbsp butter

• ¼ cup milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven: 400 °F (200 °C).

2. Cook filling:

   • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

   • Sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until soft.

   • Add ground lamb, cooking until browned.

   • Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.

   • Add broth and simmer for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

   • Stir in peas at the end.

3. Prepare mashed potatoes:

   • Boil potatoes until tender.

   • Mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.

4. Assemble pie:

   • Spread meat mixture in a baking dish.

   • Top evenly with mashed potatoes.

   • Optional: use a fork to create texture on top so it browns nicely.

5. Bake:

   • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

6. Serve:

   • Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side of greens or salad.

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If you want, I can also give a 5-minute shortcut version of Shepherd’s Pie using pre-made mashed potatoes and frozen veggies—perfect for busy weeknights. Do you want that version?