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Cozy Shepherds Pie with Ground Lamb

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A warm and comforting shepherd’s pie featuring a rich ground lamb filling topped with creamy, golden mashed potatoes. Perfect for easy family dinners and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground lamb (preferably grass-fed)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef or lamb broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter for sautéing
  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup whole milk or cream (or dairy-free milk for lighter option)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Place peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well and return to the pot.
  2. Add softened butter and warm milk to the hot potatoes. Mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside, keeping it warm.
  3. While potatoes cook, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and carrots; sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  5. Add ground lamb to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned all over, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  6. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens slightly.
  7. Stir in frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the lamb filling evenly in an oven-safe baking dish.
  9. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading gently to cover the filling completely. Use a fork to create textured ridges.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until mashed potatoes turn golden brown and edges bubble slightly.
  11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a crispier top, broil the pie for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning. Stir in grated cheddar into mashed potatoes before topping for a cheesy twist. Use fresh thyme for best flavor. Drain excess fat after browning lamb to avoid greasiness. Yukon Gold potatoes provide creamy, buttery texture. Can prepare filling and mashed potatoes a day ahead for convenience.

Nutrition

Keywords: shepherd's pie, ground lamb, mashed potatoes, comfort food, family dinner, easy recipe, Irish cuisine

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/cozy-shepherds-pie-with-ground-lamb-perfect-for-easy-family-dinners/