Recipe For Shepherd's Pie Or Cottage Pie
Introduction
Shepherd's Pie and Cottage Pie are classic comfort foods that are perfect for a cozy family dinner. These savory pies are made with a layer of seasoned meat and vegetables, topped with a creamy mashed potato crust. In this article, we'll take a look at the recipe for Shepherd's Pie or Cottage Pie, and how you can make it at home.
Ingredients
For the meat filling, you will need:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the mashed potato topping, you will need:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrots, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
5. Stir in the tomato paste and beef or chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the mixture has thickened.
6. While the meat filling is simmering, prepare the mashed potato topping. Boil the cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water until tender, then drain and mash with butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
7. Once the meat filling has thickened, transfer it to a large baking dish or casserole. Spread the mashed potato topping evenly over the meat mixture.
8. Bake the Shepherd's Pie or Cottage Pie for 30-35 minutes until the mashed potato topping is golden brown and crispy.
Variations
There are many variations to the classic Shepherd's Pie or Cottage Pie recipe. Here are a few ideas:
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or lamb for a lighter version.
- Add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Top the mashed potatoes with shredded cheese or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Make mini Shepherd's Pies or Cottage Pies in individual ramekins for a fun twist.
Conclusion
Shepherd's Pie or Cottage Pie is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. With this easy recipe, you can make it at home and enjoy it with your family and friends. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and variations, and make it your own!
