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Shepherd's Pie is a quintessential comfort food that has warmed hearts and bellies for generations. This hearty dish, traditionally made with minced meat and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, encapsulates the essence of home-cooked meals. Its rich history and the ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia make it a beloved choice for family gatherings and cozy nights in. Whether you’re seeking a dish to share with loved ones or simply looking for a satisfying meal after a long day, Cozy Comfort Shepherd's Pie stands out as a nourishing option that never fails to please.

Classic Shepherd’s Pie

Discover the heartwarming flavors of Cozy Comfort Shepherd's Pie, a classic dish that brings together savory minced meat, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings, this recipe embraces tradition while allowing for modern twists. Learn how to create a dish that not only nourishes but also evokes nostalgia, making every bite a fulfilling experience. Gather your loved ones and dive into this comforting meal today!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

1 cup frozen peas

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 cup beef or vegetable broth

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

1/2 cup milk

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

    - In a large pot, fill with water and bring to a rapid boil. Add the peeled potato chunks and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

      - Incorporate the milk, butter, salt, and pepper into the warm potatoes. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. If you like, stir in a pinch of nutmeg for an added layer of flavor. Set the mashed potatoes aside.

        Cook the Meat Filling:

          - In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground lamb or beef. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally and breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.

            - Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent.

              - Stir in the diced carrots and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, allowing the carrots to become tender.

                - Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and the dried herbs to the skillet. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, stir in the frozen peas and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

                  Assemble the Pie:

                    - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

                      - Carefully spoon the savory meat and vegetable mixture evenly into a 9x13-inch baking dish.

                        - Top the hearty filling with the creamy mashed potatoes, using a spatula to spread them evenly while creating attractive ripples on the surface. For an extra touch, consider dotting the top with a few bits of butter for a golden finish while baking.

                          Bake:

                            - Place the assembled shepherd’s pie in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and you see bubbles forming around the edges from the filling.

                              Serve:

                                - Allow the shepherd’s pie to cool for about 5 minutes before serving, which will help it set slightly. Scoop generous portions onto plates and relish the warm, hearty flavors of this comforting classic dish!

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr | 6 servings