Classic Homemade Shepherds Pie with Savory Lamb Filling

Ingredients

• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •1 medium onion, finely chopped
• •2 medium carrots, diced
• •2 garlic cloves, minced
• •1 pound ground lamb
• •1 tablespoon tomato paste
• •1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• •1 cup beef stock
• •1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• •1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• •1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• •Salt and pepper to taste
• •2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
• •4 tablespoons butter
• •1/4 cup whole milk
• •1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. 2

   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced carrots, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. 3

   Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

4. 4

   Add the ground lamb to the skillet, cooking until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

5. 5

   Stir in tomato paste and flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

6. 6

   Pour in beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10 minutes, reducing slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. 7

   Meanwhile, boil peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return potatoes to the pot.

8. 8

   Mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth. Add salt to taste and mix in shredded cheddar cheese, if using.

9. 9

   Transfer the lamb mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them over the filling and creating peaks with a fork for texture.

10. 10

    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

11. 11

    Allow to cool slightly before serving.