Classic Shepherd's Pie with Peas

Name: Classic Shepherd's Pie with Peas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound ground lamb; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Plates

I absolutely love making Classic Shepherd's Pie with Peas because it brings warmth and comfort to my table. The earthy flavors of the ground meat paired with savory vegetables and topped with creamy mashed potatoes makes it a standout dish for family dinners. I always enjoy how easy it is to prepare, yet it feels so indulgent. Each bite reminds me of home and the cozy meals shared with loved ones on chilly evenings. This recipe is perfect for anybody looking to create a hearty meal with minimal fuss.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:05:15.777Z

In my journey to perfecting Shepherd's Pie, I discovered that using both ground beef and lamb creates a savory depth of flavor that's hard to resist. I also learned that adding peas not only enhances the texture but also brings a pop of color that makes the dish visually appealing. This small twist elevates an otherwise traditional recipe to new heights.

I recommend using freshly mashed potatoes; the creaminess complements the hearty filling beautifully. Don't skimp on seasoning either; letting your vegetables sweat in the pan before adding the meat allows their flavors to bloom fully, creating a richer taste.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A comforting classic that's perfect for family gatherings
Rich, savory filling with a touch of sweetness from the peas
Creamy mashed potato topping that adds an irresistible texture

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of Classic Shepherd's Pie lies in its hearty filling, where the combination of ground beef and lamb creates a deep and rich flavor profile. The beef brings a robust taste, while the lamb adds a slight sweetness and unique earthiness that is quintessential to this dish. Each ingredient contributes to the overall experience, with the onion and garlic providing aromatic depth, and the peas introducing a pop of sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.

In this recipe, I recommend using a good quality beef broth, as it enhances the flavor significantly. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half of the ground meat with mushrooms for a vegetarian version, which will also keep the filling hearty and satisfying. Just be sure to sauté them until browned to achieve maximum flavor before adding the broth.

Techniques for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

When preparing your mashed potatoes, a key technique is to ensure they are cooked just until tender—around 20 minutes—so they maintain their structure while becoming easy to mash. If overcooked, they can turn gummy. To achieve the ideal creamy texture, I use a potato masher rather than a food processor; this prevents overmixing and maintains a rustic feel. Adding the milk and butter while the potatoes are still warm allows for better absorption, ensuring every bite is velvety smooth.

For those who prefer a lighter version of mashed potatoes, consider substituting some of the whole milk with chicken or vegetable broth. It will impart a wonderful flavor without the added richness of cream, while a touch of garlic powder or fresh chives can add a flavorful twist. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly, as broth may contain more sodium.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground lamb
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
1 cup frozen peas
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water for about 20 minutes or until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until creamy and smooth.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and garlic, cooking until soft. Add the ground beef and lamb, cooking until browned. Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, then add beef broth. Mix in the peas and season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Shepherd's Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the meat filling to a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes on top, smoothing it out. Use a fork to create texture on the surface.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to your filling.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about Shepherd's Pie is that it stores beautifully in the refrigerator, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. After assembling the pie, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes if needed to ensure it heats through completely.

If you're thinking of preparing a larger batch, Shepherd's Pie freezes well too. Just allow it to cool fully after baking, then wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 30-40 minutes. The top may not be as crisp as when freshly baked, but it will still taste comforting and delicious.

Serving Ideas and Variations

Shepherd’s Pie is wonderful on its own, but I love serving it with a side of steamed green vegetables for added color and nutrition. A simple salad dressed with vinaigrette pairs nicely as well, cutting through the richness of the dish. You can sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or parsley on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

For a creative twist, consider experimenting with different vegetable combinations in the filling, such as adding diced bell peppers or corn for a pop of color and subtle sweetness. If you're a fan of spice, a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeño can give it an exciting kick. If you prefer a fully vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or chickpeas for a satisfying alternative that still carries the soul of the classic dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover meat for Shepherd's Pie?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted meats work wonderfully, just chop them up and mix with the vegetables.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and mash the potatoes, then assemble before baking. It can also be frozen for later!

→ What can I serve with Shepherd's Pie?

It pairs nicely with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Is Shepherd's Pie gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure your beef broth and any sauces are gluten-free and serve with a suitable potato topping.