Rustic Shepherd's Pie with Herbs
Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes
I absolutely love making this Rustic Shepherd's Pie with Herbs for my family during colder months. It's the perfect comfort food, packed with tender ground meat, vibrant vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. The infusion of fresh herbs elevates the traditional flavors, making each bite a delight. I find joy in using whatever herbs I have on hand, bringing each batch of pie to life in its own unique way. It's an elegant yet hearty dish that never fails to warm our hearts and homes!
Creating this Rustic Shepherd's Pie with Herbs became a family tradition for us, especially during the chilly evenings when we crave something warm and filling. Using ground lamb gives it a distinct flavor, and adding herbs like rosemary and thyme brings a garden freshness to the dish. I learned that letting the meat mixture simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is rich and savory.
When I prepare the mashed potatoes, I like to mix in a little cream cheese; it adds a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complements the hearty filling. This simple tweak makes all the difference, and I always get compliments on how creamy and flavorful the topping is!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying for the whole family
- Fresh herbs add a bright flavor dimension
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Variety in ingredients means it can be customized
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup sweet peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Cook the Filling
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the carrots, garlic, and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Season and Simmer
Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and add the peas, then bring to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the filling simmers, boil the potatoes until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and mash together with the cream cheese, milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat filling in an even layer at the bottom of a baking dish, then top with the creamy mashed potatoes. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to use any ground meat you prefer, such as beef or turkey. Adding some cheese on top of the potatoes before baking can create a delicious crust.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this Shepherd's Pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time, then assemble and bake it just before serving.
→ What can I substitute for lamb?
You can substitute ground beef, turkey, or even a mix of meats according to your preference.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and they reheat beautifully in the oven.
→ Can I freeze Shepherd's Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Rustic Shepherd's Pie with Herbs
I absolutely love making this Rustic Shepherd's Pie with Herbs for my family during colder months. It's the perfect comfort food, packed with tender ground meat, vibrant vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. The infusion of fresh herbs elevates the traditional flavors, making each bite a delight. I find joy in using whatever herbs I have on hand, bringing each batch of pie to life in its own unique way. It's an elegant yet hearty dish that never fails to warm our hearts and homes!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup sweet peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the carrots, garlic, and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and add the peas, then bring to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
While the filling simmers, boil the potatoes until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and mash together with the cream cheese, milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat filling in an even layer at the bottom of a baking dish, then top with the creamy mashed potatoes. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to use any ground meat you prefer, such as beef or turkey. Adding some cheese on top of the potatoes before baking can create a delicious crust.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 690mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g