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Cozy Shepherds Pie Recipe with Lamb or Beef

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A comforting shepherd’s pie featuring savory lamb or beef with caramelized onions, herbs, and a creamy mashed potato topping blended with cottage cheese for extra smoothness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb or beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (240 ml) beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 lbs (900 g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk or cream
  • ¼ cup (60 g) cottage cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Peel and chop 2 lbs (900 g) of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until tender.
  2. While potatoes cook, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb or beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
  4. Mix in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme leaves. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring to combine.
  5. Pour in beef or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook uncovered for 10 minutes until thickened. Stir in frozen peas and cook 2 more minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Drain potatoes thoroughly and return to pot. Add softened butter, milk or cream, and cottage cheese. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spoon meat filling into a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top, smoothing with a spatula or fork.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling. Optionally broil for 2-3 minutes for extra browning, watching carefully.
  9. Let the shepherd’s pie rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use firm, small-curd cottage cheese for best mash texture. For gluten-free, verify Worcestershire sauce or substitute with tamari. Leftovers improve overnight and reheat well in oven or microwave. Avoid overmixing potatoes to prevent gluey texture. Broil carefully for a golden crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: shepherd's pie, lamb, beef, comfort food, mashed potatoes, easy dinner, family meal, cozy recipe

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