Irish Shepherd's Pie: A Hearty and Comforting Meal

Warm up with the ultimate comfort food with Irish Shepherd's Pie: A Hearty and Comforting Meal!

This traditional dish features a savory ground meat filling, usually lamb or beef, cooked with onions, carrots, and peas, all topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection.

It’s a classic Irish recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, bringing comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

How to Make Irish Shepherd's Pie 👇👇👇

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb ground lamb (or beef)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Filling:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

• Add the ground lamb (or beef) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Stir in the diced carrots, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the carrots are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
• Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Make the Mashed Potato Topping:

While the meat filling is cooking, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.

• Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble the Shepherd's Pie:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Transfer the meat filling to a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top of the meat filling, spreading them out evenly with a spatula.
• If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes.

4. Bake the Shepherd's Pie:

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Let the Shepherd's Pie cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish with your favorite side salad or vegetables.

Grocery List for Easy Shopping

• Ground lamb (or beef)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Frozen peas
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh thyme (or dried)
• Fresh rosemary (or dried)
• Olive oil or butter
• Potatoes
• Milk
• Cheddar cheese (optional)

This Irish Shepherd's Pie is the perfect meal for a cozy night in, offering rich flavors and comforting textures that the whole family will love. Enjoy every bite! 🌟🍽️

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