How to Make Shepherd’s Pie (Plus 3 Easy Upgrades)

Homemade Irish Shepherd's Pie with Lamb and Potatoes
Image via bhofack2/Depositphotos

If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and downright delicious, Shepherd’s Pie is your answer. But here’s the twist—we’re not sticking to the usual script. Today, we’re going to show you how to make the timeless classic and then jazz it up with three incredible upgrades. Let’s jump in. 

Ingredients

For the Filling

  • 1 pound ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion
  • 2 carrots
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil

For the Mashed Potatoes

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. In a skillet, heat oil. Add onion, carrots, and garlic. Saute until softened. Add your meat. Cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and peas. 
  2. Pour in broth and simmer for 10-15 minutes. 
  3. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk. 
  4. Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread filling in a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling. 

Upgrade Idea

  1. After spreading the mashed potatoes, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking. 
  1. Infuse your mashed potatoes with extra flavor by adding minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives. 
  1. Swap out the traditional mashed potatoes for creamy mashed sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory filling.