Traditional Shepherd's Pie

The Story Behind This Pie

A British classic that’s been warming hearts and bellies for centuries. Originally created as a way to use leftover roast meat, shepherd’s pie (with lamb) or cottage pie (with beef) is the ultimate comfort food. This version stays true to tradition while being simple enough for busy weeknights.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potato Topping

Peel and cube potatoes (2-3cm pieces). Boil in salted water for 15-20 minutes until very tender. Drain well, return to pot over low heat for 1 minute to evaporate excess moisture. Mash until smooth.

Andy’s Tip: Dry potatoes = fluffy mash! After draining, let them steam in the hot pot briefly.

Step 2: Make it Creamy

Beat in warm milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir in half the cheese (50g). Set aside.

Andy’s Tip: Warm milk is key! Cold milk makes lumpy, gluey mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Heat oil in a large, deep pan over high heat. Add mince, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until deeply browned. Stir and brown for another 3 minutes.

Andy’s Tip: Don’t stir too much! Let the meat develop a caramelized crust for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Build Flavor

Add onion and carrots, cook 5 minutes. Add garlic and tomato paste, cook 2 minutes. Sprinkle flour over mixture, stir well for 1 minute.

Andy’s Tip: The flour thickens the sauce and helps it cling to the meat - don’t skip it!

Step 5: Create the Gravy

Pour in beef stock and Worcestershire sauce. Add thyme, bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until thick and rich. Stir in peas, cook 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove thyme sprigs.

Andy’s Tip: The mixture should be thick like Bolognese, not soupy. Simmer longer if needed!

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Transfer meat mixture to a large baking dish. Spread mashed potato evenly over top, creating peaks with a fork (these crisp up beautifully). Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.

Andy’s Tip: Those peaks and ridges? They’re not just pretty - they get golden and crispy!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling around the edges and golden on top. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Andy’s Tip: For extra-crispy top, finish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch it closely!

Ingredient Shopping Guide

Where to Buy

Shepherd’s pie uses simple, affordable ingredients available at any supermarket:

• FairPrice - Good minced beef selection, affordable
• Cold Storage - Premium beef mince if you want extra quality
• Sheng Siong - Best value for basics like potatoes and vegetables

Choosing Meat

80-85% lean: Best flavor and moisture 90% lean: Healthier but drier Grass-fed: More expensive but richer flavor

Cost Breakdown

Ingredient	Estimated Price
Minced beef (600g)	$8.50
Potatoes (1kg)	$2.50
Vegetables (carrots, peas, onion)	$2.30
Cheese (100g)	$2.50
Beef stock	$2.00
Butter, milk & seasonings	$2.70
TOTAL	$20.50

Total estimated cost: $17.00 (serves 6) Cost per serving: $2.83

Budget-friendly family meal! Cheaper and healthier than takeout.

Recipe Variations

Make it Your Own

Expert Baking Tips

Perfect Mashed Potatoes

1. Choose the right potato: Russet or Yukon Gold (high starch)
2. Cut evenly: Similar sizes cook at the same rate
3. Don’t overmix: Overworking makes gluey mash
4. Warm milk: Room temp or warm milk integrates smoothly

Making Ahead

• Prepare components separately: Make meat and mash up to 2 days ahead
• Assemble when ready: Combine cold components, bake from cold (add 10 mins)
• Freeze unbaked: Freeze for up to 3 months, bake from frozen (50-60 mins)

Kid-Friendly Adaptations

• Hide veggies: Finely dice or purée carrots into sauce
• Extra cheese: Kids love cheese - add more on top
• Individual portions: Make in ramekins for personal pies

Preventing Common Issues

Watery filling: Simmer longer to evaporate liquid Dry filling: Add more stock, don’t overcook meat Lumpy mash: Use potato ricer or food mill for smoothest results Soggy top: Ensure filling is thick before adding potato

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 620mg

Storage & Reheating

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings:

• Simple green salad
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Crusty bread and butter
• Tomato chutney or HP sauce
• Pickled onions (traditional British!)

Make it a Feast:

• Serve with Yorkshire puddings
• Side of mushy peas
• Glazed carrots
• Perfect for Sunday dinner

Reviews & Ratings

Frequently Asked Questions

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Ready for ultimate comfort food? This shepherd’s pie is sure to become a family favorite!