Rustic Harvest Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is that beloved comfort dish perfect on a chilly evening or whenever you crave something hearty. Traditionally made with ground lamb and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this classic casserole layers savory vegetables, a rich sauce, and a golden crust of pillowy spuds. Get ready to warm both your kitchen and your heart with this simple yet satisfying recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup milk (or cream, for extra richness)

Instructions

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about five minutes, letting the vegetables soften and develop a touch of color. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

Next, crumble in the ground lamb, stirring constantly to brown it evenly. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Once the meat is browned, stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute more, allowing it to coat the lamb and vegetables.

Pour in the beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle on the thyme. Reduce the heat to low, then let the flavors simmer and meld for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in a pot of salted water until fork-tender, then drain well. Mash the potatoes with butter, milk, and a dash of salt and pepper until light and fluffy.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spoon the lamb mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Carefully top with the mashed potatoes, creating peaks or swirling the surface for a rustic look. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden on top and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

This Rustic Harvest Shepherd’s Pie is a crowd-pleaser for fans of comforting, old-fashioned meals. It’s fantastic for anyone seeking a balanced platter of protein and vegetables, and you can easily swap in ground beef or turkey, add extra vegetables like peas or mushrooms, or even top with sweet potatoes for a twist. No matter how you prepare it, few dishes can rival the cozy, gratifying taste of a homemade Shepherd’s Pie straight from the oven.