Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This BBC Good Food-inspired Shepherd's Pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend family feast. We've taken the classic recipe and given it a modern twist, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying dish that's quick to prepare, even for busy weeknights. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
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For the Lamb Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Topping:
- 1.5 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 50g butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Lamb Filling
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the ground lamb and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
Step 2: Making the Potato Topping
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Return the potatoes to the pot and mash thoroughly.
- Stir in the milk (or cream) and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assembling and Baking the Shepherd's Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the lamb filling to a large oven-safe dish.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the lamb filling. You can create a decorative swirl or leave it smooth, depending on your preference.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Tips for the Best Shepherd's Pie:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground lamb and beef.
- Don't overcook the lamb, or it will become dry.
- If you prefer a smoother mashed potato topping, pass the potatoes through a ricer before adding the milk and butter.
- For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking.
Variations:
- Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie: Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes in the topping for a naturally sweeter and more vibrant dish.
- Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie: Replace the ground lamb with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option. Add a vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Spicy Shepherd's Pie: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the lamb filling for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on specific ingredients used. Consult a nutrition calculator for a precise value. Expect roughly:
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Enjoy your delicious and comforting homemade Shepherd's Pie! This recipe is a testament to the joy of simple, delicious, and healthy meals. It's perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!