Classic Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Mashed Potato Topping

Here’s a delicious and easy Shepherd’s Pie / Cottage Pie recipe inspired by your photos!

(Traditionally, shepherd’s pie uses lamb, and cottage pie uses beef — you can use either.)

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Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

🧂 Ingredients

For the meat layer:

• 500 g ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup peas
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp thyme or rosemary
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional but recommended)
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil

For the mashed potato topping:

• 4–5 large potatoes
• 2–3 tbsp butter
• ½ cup milk (or cream for richer topping)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)

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Instructions

1️⃣ Make the mashed potatoes

1. Peel and cut potatoes into chunks.
2. Boil in salted water until soft (about 15 minutes).
3. Drain and mash.
4. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

2️⃣ Prepare the meat filling

1. Heat oil in a pan.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
4. Add carrots and peas.
5. Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
6. Let simmer for 10 minutes until thick.

3️⃣ Assemble

1. Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish.
2. Add mashed potatoes on top and smooth it out.
3. Sprinkle cheese generously over the surface.

4️⃣ Bake

• Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 20–25 minutes,
  or until golden and bubbly like in your picture.

🌿 Optional garnish

• Fresh parsley
• A drizzle of olive oil

🍽️ Enjoy!

Rich, creamy, hearty, and perfect for family meals — this dish is always a winner.