Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie

Sharing a delicious Shepherd's Pie recipe that's a true Irish classic! Easy to make, family-friendly, and packed with nutrients. Use beef, lamb, or turkey, and feel free to customize with ketchup for a touch of sweetness. Perfect for freezing and individual servings too! Enjoy!

Steps for Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie

Here's a step-by-step instructions for making Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie:

1. Pre-heat oven to 200C/400°F.
2. Saute carrots in the olive oil until starting to get tender.
3. Add in the onions and saute for a minute or two then add the meat.
4. Season with black pepper and thyme.
5. Cook until browned then drain fat.
6. Add the butter and peas.
7. Sprinkle with flour and stir through.
8. Add tomato paste, wine and Worcestershire sauce.
9. Let this reduce slightly then add the chicken stock. Allow to reduce down until you have a thick meaty gravy. Season to your taste.
10. Remove from heat. Grease an oven proof dish** (9x13 works for me, as does an oval baker) with butter and add the sauce.
11. Spoon or pipe the mashed potatoes over top. Brush with egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.
12. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the potato is nice and browned on top.
13. Serve as is or with some crusty bread to mop up that yummy sauce!

Why you'll love Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie

• Rich Flavor Profile: Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie is known for its hearty and comforting flavors, combining seasoned ground lamb or beef with a medley of vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions. The savory meat filling is often enhanced with herbs and spices, such as thyme and rosemary, creating a deliciously rich and satisfying meal that warms the soul.
• Balanced Nutritional Value: This dish is not only tasty but also provides a balanced meal, incorporating protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the mashed potatoes, and essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The combination of these ingredients makes Shepherd's Pie a wholesome option that can contribute to a well-rounded diet.
• Versatile and Customizable: Shepherd's Pie is highly versatile, allowing for various adaptations to suit personal tastes or dietary restrictions. Whether you prefer a vegetarian version using lentils or chickpeas, or you want to experiment with different vegetables and spices, this classic dish can be easily customized while still retaining its comforting essence.