Shepherd’s Pie with Cheese Topping

Shepherd\'s Pie with Cheese Topping
Shepherd\'s Pie with Cheese Topping

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground lamb or beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for brushing)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large skillet or frying pan, brown the ground lamb or beef over medium heat until cooked through. Remove any excess fat if needed.
  3. Add the diced onions, carrots, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to coat the meat and vegetables.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and thickened slightly. Stir in the peas.
  7. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
  8. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture, creating an even layer.
  9. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes, covering the entire surface.
  10. If desired, dot the top of the cheese with small pieces of butter for a golden and flavorful crust.
  11. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the filling is heated through.
  12. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  13. Serve the Shepherd’s Pie with Cheese Topping hot and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors with the indulgent melted cheese layer on top of the creamy mashed potatoes.

Shepherd’s Pie with Cheese Topping is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, elevating it with the rich and gooey layer of melted cheese. It adds an extra level of indulgence and flavor to the dish, making it a perfect comfort food option for any occasion. Enjoy the creamy mashed potatoes, savory meat and vegetable filling, and the irresistible melted cheese topping!