Image Source from laineyrecipes

Simple Homemade Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef Recipe

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic British dish that warms the heart and soul. Traditionally made with lamb, this comforting pie can also be prepared with ground beef for a delicious variation. It’s the perfect recipe for a cosy family dinner or to impress guests with a taste of British culinary tradition.

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 500g ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 200g frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 500ml beef stock
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the mash:

• 750g potatoes (preferably Maris Piper or King Edward)
• 50ml milk
• 50g butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

1. Prepare the Mash

Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted boiling water and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Add the butter and milk to the hot potatoes, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. Cook the Filling

In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over a medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and diced carrots, cooking for a further 5 minutes until the carrots begin to soften.

Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned all over. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and the dried thyme. Pour in the beef stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 10-15 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper.

3. Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6. Spoon the beef mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it with the creamy mashed potatoes, making sure to cover the filling entirely. You can use a fork to create swirls on the surface, which will help it get a lovely golden colour when baked.

4. Bake

Place the shepherd’s pie into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If you prefer a crispier top, you can place it under the grill for an additional 5 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

5. Serve

Once baked, remove the shepherd’s pie from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This dish is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, accompanied by a side of seasonal vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Tips

• Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavour and nutrition.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley or rosemary can be added to the mash or filling for added freshness.
• Make Ahead: Shepherd’s pie can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

This simple homemade Shepherd’s Pie with ground beef recipe is not only comforting but also versatile and easy to make. Perfect for those chilly evenings, it’s sure to become a family favourite. Enjoy creating this delicious dish that brings the flavours of Britain right to your kitchen!

No items listed in the response.