What is traditional shepherd's pie made of?
Traditionally, shepherd's pie is made with lamb mince, vegetables and mashed potato. The meat is added to an aromatic combination of softened carrot, onion and celery, known in French cooking as a mirepoix, which is then loosened up with stock, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste and bay leaves to make a tasty gravy. This mixture is then topped with mashed potato and baked to bubbling, golden perfection.
What is the difference between cottage pie and shepherd's pie?
Cottage pie is very similar to shepherd’s pie (they're both topped with creamy mashed potatoes) but with one main difference - cottage pie uses beef mince (ground beef) instead of lamb (ground lamb) as its meat mixture. You can swap the lamb for ground beef in this recipe should you wish, or try our cottage pie recipe that’s on the table in 45 minutes.
We use a beef stock (or beef broth) to make shepherd's pie with this recipe (to further flavour the meat mixture), but you can use a homemade beef broth if you're feeling ambitious or have some on hand.
What to eat with shepherd’s pie?
Shepherd’s pie is hearty and filling, so it balances well with vegetable sides like garlicky green beans, balsamic roasted brussel sprouts and minted peas with broccoli. Crusty bread or Irish soda bread also makes for a good side to mop up the delicious gravy. You can serve shepherd's pie as a whole meal (it's a great leftover lunch too), if you like, as it's full of everything you need to complete your meal - protein, carbs and vegies.
How can I thicken my shepherd's pie?
This shepherd's pie recipe uses 2 tablespoons of flour to thicken the gravy but if you feel like the meat mixture is too watery, add in another tablespoon and stir to combine. You may also try simmering the mince mixture for longer so that the stock reduces down and thickens. Finally, ensure that you have drained your potatoes well before mashing to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
Can I freeze shepherd’s pie?
Assemble your shepherd's pie filling and mashed potatoes in the baking dish or casserole dish, and allow to cool completely. Cover with cling film and freeze. The shepherd's pie will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, defrost it in the fridge overnight, and then follow recipe instructions for baking your shepherd's pie in the oven.
