Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting casserole that consists of ground lamb, carrots, and peas simmered with Guinness, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs and topped with a cheesy mashed potato layer that’s baked until golden and crisp.
What Is Shepherd’s Pie?
In England (and Australia and New Zealand) they would call the beef dish a “cottage pie” and the lamb dish “shepherds pie”.
Regardless of what you call it, a shepherds pie is basically a casserole with a layer of cooked meat and vegetables, topped with mashed potatoes, and baked in the oven until the mashed potatoes are well browned.
When you dig in you get a spoonful of mashed potatoes, some crispy bits, meat, and vegetables all in one bite. Its pure comfort food.
What follows is a simple recipe for a ground beef version of Shepherds Pie. The original recipe comes from my friend Frances Hochschild, and her mother (thanks Frannie!).
Make It Ahead
The beef mixture can be made up to 2 days ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Or make the whole casserole ahead, cover the dish with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge for up to a day. Let it sit out on the counter while the oven preheats, then add a few minutes to the bake time.
Classic Shepherd’s Pie | Gordon Ramsay
FAQ
What is original shepherd’s pie made of?
What meat is shepherd’s pie made from?
What is shepherd’s pie made of in England?
What is a shepherd’s pie made of?
Made with any of several meats, with vegetables such as carrots and green peas and boiled eggs, all topped with mashed potato. Also known in Canada as shepherd’s pie, consisting of a bottom layer of beef, a middle layer of creamed sweetcorn, topped with mashed potato. The Irish for shepherd’s pie.
How do you make a shepherd’s pie?
To make the most traditional shepherd’s pie possible, line a pie pan (bottom and all sides) with mashed potatoes, add a minced or ground lamb and vegetable mix, then top with more mashed potatoes and bake.
What is a shepherd’s pie topped with mashed potatoes?
A shepherd’s pie is a savory pie made with minced meat and topped with a layer of mashed potatoes. The filling for the dish is typically cooked in a gravy with onions, peas, celery, and/or carrots. Basically, shepherd’s pie is the comfort food to end all comfort foods.
What is a shepherd’s pie called?
In France, a shepherd’s pie is called Hachis Parmentier. In Indonesia, pastel tutup is a similar dish made with chicken and topped with mashed potatoes. The beauty of shepherd’s pie is that it’s incredibly easy to make. Since it’s just a mishmash of different ingredients, you’ve got a lot of leeway when it comes to preparation.