Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie

Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie

1 serving
Posting this per a request. I've said it once and I'll say it again there is nothing Irish about Corned Beef and Cabbage, but Shepherd's Pie has always been and still is a staple of traditional Irish cooking. This is a really easy, but tasty recipe that the whole family will enjoy. It's nutritionally sound with all the major food groups represented. The British use lamb in their Shepherd's Pie, but we've always used beef. Do whatever you prefer or even try turkey if you're watching fat content. This sauce is lovely and rich and should go well with any meat. You can use fresh or leftover mashed potato. I usually use 3 tbsp of ketchup instead of the 2tbsp of tomato paste as I like the hint of sweetness, but traditionally the paste would be more sound! You can also make individual pies which are always a hit with the kids. This freezes beautifully too, so make two and save one! Just let it defrost and glaze with the egg and pop into the oven as directed. Enjoy! :)

Ingredients

  • olive oil
    1 tbsp
  • black pepper
    1 tsp
  • lamb or 1 lb ground beef
    1 lb
  • onion

    finely diced

    1 large
  • carrots

    finely diced

    3 large
  • frozen peas
    1 c
  • fresh thyme

    finely chopped

    3 sprigs
  • flour
    2 tbsp
  • butter
    1 tbsp
  • glass red wine
    1
  • tomato paste
    2 tbsp
  • worcestershire sauce
    2 tbsp
  • chicken stock
    1 c
  • quantity mashed potatoes

    estimating 1l or 6 cups, fresh or leftover

    1 large
  • egg

    beaten

    1
  • grated parmesan cheese

    optional

Directions

  1. 1

    Pre-heat oven to 200C/400°F.

  2. 2

    Saute carrots in the olive oil until starting to get tender.

  3. 3

    Add in the onions and saute for a minute or two then add the meat.

  4. 4

    Season with black pepper and thyme.

  5. 5

    Cook until browned then drain fat.

  6. 6

    Add the butter and peas.

  7. 7

    Sprinkle with flour and stir through.

  8. 8

    Add tomato paste, wine and Worcestershire sauce.

  9. 9

    Let this reduce slightly then add the chicken stock. Allow to reduce down until you have a thick meaty gravy. Season to your taste.

  10. 10

    Remove from heat. Grease an oven proof dish** (9x13 works for me, as does an oval baker) with butter and add the sauce.

  11. 11

    Spoon or pipe the mashed potatoes over top. Brush with egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.

  12. 12

    Bake for about 20 minutes or until the potato is nice and browned on top.

  13. 13

    Serve as is or with some crusty bread to mop up that yummy sauce!

Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie

Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie

40 min1 serving387 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a taste of true Irish comfort food that’s both hearty and wholesome? This Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie brings authentic flavors right to your family table in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a festive St. Patrick's Day centerpiece.

What makes this recipe truly special is its rich, savory sauce that perfectly complements your choice of meat, creating a satisfying depth of flavor. Whether you opt for lamb, beef, or even turkey, the luxurious gravy infused with red wine, Worcestershire, and thyme ensures every bite is pure bliss. The generous topping of creamy mashed potatoes seals in the deliciousness, making it a complete meal that's nutritionally sound.

Expect a deeply savory and robust dish with tender meat and vegetables bathed in a luscious, full-bodied sauce, all crowned with a golden, pillowy layer of mashed potatoes. The hint of sweetness from ketchup (if you choose that variation) or the traditional richness of tomato paste adds complexity without overpowering the classic flavors. This is a wonderfully approachable one-dish meal that delivers on taste and warmth, sure to become a family favorite for its comforting appeal and ease of preparation.

You have great flexibility when preparing this classic Shepherd's Pie. Feel free to swap the ground beef for lamb for a more traditional British take, or use ground turkey if you’re looking to reduce fat content. You can use either freshly made mashed potatoes or convenient leftover mashed potatoes for the topping. For the sauce, 3 tablespoons of ketchup can replace the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste if you prefer a touch of sweetness. For a fun, kid-friendly option, consider assembling this recipe into individual pies using ramekins.

This robust and flavorful Shepherd's Pie is ideal for a comforting family dinner any night of the week, especially cherished for gatherings or as a delicious centerpiece for St. Patrick's Day celebrations. It’s truly a satisfying meal all on its own.

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