Shepherd’s Pie recipe is a savory pie like Chicken Pot Pie and it’s just as homey and comforting. It is a stunning and welcoming dish for the holiday table. Watch the video tutorial and learn how to make it. This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.
Shepherd’s Pie Video Tutorial
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What is a Shepherd’s Pie?
Shepherd’s Pie (also known as cottage pie) originated in England. It is a savory pie with ground red meat (usually either ground lamb or ground beef) in a vegetable gravy sauce, topped with a layer of mashed potatoes. The potatoes seal in the saucy gravy filling and develop a golden crust as the pie bakes in the oven.
Ingredients for Shepherd’s Pie
Ground Beef – we used lean beef, or you can substitute with ground lamb.Salt and Pepper – after several tests, we found this simple seasoning is all that is needed. Thyme and rosemary are commonly added but we found it overpowering in any quantity. Onion – we used yellow onion, but you can substitute any varietyGarlic – aromatic that enhances the sauceAll-purpose flour – thickens the sauceRed Wine – use a dry red wine to add rich flavor. Use any dry red wine such as Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet, or Sauvignon (avoid cooking wine)Beef Broth – you can use Chicken broth if that is what you have on hand.Tomato paste – rounds out the flavor of the sauce Worcestershire sauce – adds the umami (savory notes)Frozen vegetables – we use a combination of carrots, peas and corn
The Best Mashed Potatoes for Cottage Pie
You can easily use leftover Creamy Mashed Potatoes or even Garlic Mashed Potatoes if you have some on hand, but be sure to add parmesan and egg. Here’s what you’ll need to cook mashed potatoes for Shephards Pie:
Russet Potatoes – whip up super creamy and smoothHeavy Whipping Cream – makes potatoes luxuriously creamySalt – add to taste after mashingParmesan cheese – gives the potatoes the best tasteEgg – creates that lovely golden hue in the ovenButter – helps with color and keeps the potatoes moist
Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes
Cut potatoes into even pieces – this ensures they cook at the same rate.Add salt after the potatoes are cooked and they are less likely to become waterlogged. Do not overcook potatoes or they will turn gummy. Mash right away with a potato masher while potatoes are hot.
How to Make the Filling
To Assemble a Shepherd’s Pie
Pro Tip: Shepherd’s Pie can be made ahead which is perfect for the holidays or busy weeknights. See the Make-ahead section below for tips on refrigerating or freezing the pie.
Common Questions
Serve Shepherd’s Pie with
Shepherd’s Pie can be the main course for a weekend dinner or a side dish when serving during the holidays. We love to pair it with fresh veggies, salad, and bread to soak up the gravy.
Soft Dinner RollsCloverleaf Dinner Rolls (family favorite!)Caesar SaladBLT Salad with the Best DressingRoasted CauliflowerRoasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Make-Ahead
To Refrigerate: Assemble the pie and cool to room temperature then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.Freezing: Once the assembled pie is cooled, cover with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.To Reheat: Bake a refrigerated or fully thawed pie at 400˚F for 30-35 minutes.
Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food. It looks so festive alongside a Prime Rib Roast or a Juicy Roast Turkey. If it graces your holiday table, I hope you snap a photo and tag me on social media @natashaskitchen so I can see it.
