Irish Shepherd's Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a delightful combination of tender ground lamb, aromatic herbs, and creamy mashed potatoes. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting meal that's both hearty and flavorful. Additionally, the dish can be prepared in advance and stored, making it convenient for busy days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 pounds lean ground lamb
• 1 onion, diced
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 2½ cups water, or as needed
• 1 (12-ounce) package frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and halved
• ¼ pound Irish cheese (such as Dubliner), shredded
• ¼ cup cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons milk

Directions

1. Prepare the Meat Filling:

   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
   • Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add ground lamb, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, approximately 10 minutes.
   • Stir in flour until well incorporated.
   • Add minced garlic, ketchup, rosemary, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
   • Gradually add water, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens.
   • Fold in thawed peas and carrots. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

   • Place peeled and halved Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
   • Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
   • Add cream cheese, butter, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mash until smooth.
   • Mix in shredded Irish cheese, egg yolk, and milk until well combined.

3. Assemble the Pie:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Transfer the meat mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
   • Carefully spread the mashed potato mixture over the meat, smoothing the top with a spatula.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
   • Allow the pie to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
• Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
• Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes.
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Variations

• Meat Substitute: For a different flavor, substitute ground beef for lamb.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables like corn or green beans into the filling.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives to make the dish dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover shepherd's pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or reheat the entire pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between shepherd's pie and cottage pie?

Shepherd's pie traditionally uses ground lamb, while cottage pie uses ground beef.

2. Can I make shepherd's pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pie up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I freeze shepherd's pie?

Yes, assemble the pie, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

4. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for the topping?

While fresh mashed potatoes are recommended for the best texture, instant mashed potatoes can be used as a convenient alternative.

5. Can I add cheese to the meat filling?

Yes, adding shredded cheese to the meat mixture can enhance the flavor.

6. Is shepherd's pie gluten-free?

Traditional shepherd's pie contains flour in the meat filling, which is not gluten-free. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour substitute.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese for the mashed potatoes?

Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or mozzarella.

8. How can I make shepherd's pie spicier?

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Irish Shepherd's Pie

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Irish Shepherd's Pie is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender ground lamb, savory vegetables, and a rich mashed potato topping. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ideal for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you make it ahead or serve it fresh, this classic comfort food will quickly become a favorite.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Irish
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 pounds lean ground lamb
• 1 onion, diced
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 2½ cups water (or as needed)
• 1 (12-ounce) package frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and halved
• ¼ pound Irish cheese (such as Dubliner), shredded
• ¼ cup cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons milk

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Instructions

• Prepare the Meat Filling:

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add ground lamb, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, around 10 minutes.
  • Stir in flour, followed by garlic, ketchup, rosemary, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  • Gradually add water, stirring to thicken the mixture.
  • Stir in thawed peas and carrots. Remove from heat and set aside.

• Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

  • Boil peeled Yukon Gold potatoes in water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  • Drain and return potatoes to the pot. Add cream cheese, butter, and cayenne pepper, then mash until smooth.
  • Stir in shredded Irish cheese, egg yolk, and milk until well combined.

• Assemble the Pie:

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Transfer the meat mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
  • Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
  • Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• You can substitute ground beef for lamb for a different flavor.
• Add other vegetables such as corn or green beans for variety.
• To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free alternatives like butter and cream cheese.
• Instant mashed potatoes are a time-saving option, though fresh potatoes yield the best texture.