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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.

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

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.

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/irish-shepherds-pie/