Nigella Shepherds Pie

Indulge in the sumptuous world of Nigella’s Shepherd’s Pie recipe. Succulent minced lamb, crowned with a buttery mash, creates a harmonious dance of flavors. Let your taste buds be tantalized as this comforting classic takes center stage on your dinner table.

Try More Nigella Recipes:

• Nigella Slow Cooked Lamb Shoulder
• Nigella Mint Jelly
• Nigella Smoked Salmon Pate

What Is Nigella Shepherds Pie?

Nigella Shepherd’s Pie is a delightful British dish that combines a savory minced lamb filling with a creamy mashed potato topping. This comforting classic is a perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and aromas, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that warms the soul with every bite.

Nigella Shepherds Pie Ingredients

For the potatoes:

• 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes
• 1/4 cup half-and-half
• 2 ounces of unsalted butter
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 egg yolk

For the meat filling:

• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced small
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 pounds of ground lamb
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons freshly chopped rosemary leaves
• 1 teaspoon freshly chopped thyme leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen English peas

How To Make Nigella Shepherds Pie

1. Cube the peeled potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Cover with cold water in a medium saucepan and set over low heat. Bring to a boil over high heat while covered.
2. When the water returns to a boil, uncover the pot, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook until the vegetables are soft enough to be crushed with tongs, about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Heat the half-and-half and butter in the microwave for about 35 seconds, or until the mixture is hot. After cooking, drain the potatoes in a strainer and put them back in the pot.
4. Begin by mashing the potatoes, and then add the half-and-half, butter, salt, and pepper. Mix in the egg yolk thoroughly.
5. Turn the oven temperature up to 400 degrees F (200°C).
6. Prepare the filling while the potatoes are cooking. Over medium heat, put the canola oil into a 12-inch saute pan.
7. When the oil begins to shimmer, add the onion and carrot and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they begin to take on color. Put the garlic in and mix it all up.
8. After about 3 minutes, add the lamb along with the salt and pepper and heat until browned and cooked through.
9. Cook for another minute after sprinkling with flour and tossing to coat. Stir in the dried herbs (rosemary and thyme), tomato paste, chicken stock, Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper to taste.
10. Slowly simmer, covered, for 10–12 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened somewhat, from boiling.
11. Mix the corn and peas into the lamb, then lay it out in an 11×7-inch glass baking dish. To prevent the mixture from bubbling over, cover the top with the mashed potatoes and smooth with a rubber spatula, beginning at the edges.
12. Bake on a half-sheet pan coated with parchment paper in the oven for 25 minutes, or until the potatoes start to brown. Before serving, transfer to a cooling rack and let sit for at least 15 minutes.

Recipe Tips

• Opt for russet potatoes: Russet potatoes are starchy and perfect for making fluffy mashed potatoes, which create a delicious contrast with the savory meat filling in Nigella Shepherd’s Pie.
• Use ground lamb: Ground lamb provides a rich and distinct flavor to the dish, making it a traditional choice for Shepherd’s Pie. However, you can also substitute it with ground beef or turkey if desired.
• Don’t skip the tomato paste: Adding tomato paste to the meat filling enhances its depth of flavor and adds a touch of tanginess. It complements the other ingredients and brings a delightful balance to the dish.
• Add herbs for aromatic goodness: Freshly chopped rosemary and thyme lend aromatic notes to the meat filling, enhancing the overall taste profile and providing a delightful fragrance.
• Seal the edges of the mashed potatoes: When topping the meat filling with mashed potatoes, make sure to spread the potatoes around the edges to create a seal. This prevents the filling from bubbling up and ensures a beautifully presented Shepherd’s Pie.
• Allow it to rest before serving: Once the Shepherd’s Pie is baked, let it cool on a cooling rack for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to cut and serve the pie neatly.

What Side Dishes Go With Shepherds Pie?

You may serve Shepherd’s Pie with any number of accompaniments other try pairing it with corn salad, roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans, and glazed carrots. Irish soda bread and sautéed Swiss chard would make a great side dish.

How Long Will Leftover Keep Shepherds Pie It?

• In The Fridge: Leftover shepherd’s pie will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days make sure to seal it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before putting it in the refrigerator.
• In The Freezer: Leftover shepherd’s pie can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months store the pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It’s better to defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How To Reheat Shepherds Pie?

• Oven: Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) put the shepherd’s pie in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. heat for 20 to 30 minutes, or until hot throughout.
• Microwave: Place the shepherd’s pie portions on microwave-safe plates heat on medium power for 2 to 3 minutes, then check for doneness.
• Air Fryer: Turn on the air fryer and set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) place each portion of shepherd’s pie in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until it’s heated through.

FAQs

Try More Nigella Recipes:

• Nigella Chocolate Truffles
• Nigella Mushroom Risotto
• Nigella Banana And Chocolate Cake

Nigella Shepherds Pie Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving

• Calories 693
• Total Fat 40g
• Saturated Fat 17g
• Trans Fat 0.5g
• Cholesterol 174mg
• Sodium 1481mg
• Potassium 1499mg
• Total Carbohydrates 52g
• Dietary Fiber 6.7g
• Sugars 8.3g
• Protein 34g

Make your meal special! Click here to find beautiful Pie Dish that everyone will love:

• Emile Henry HR Modern Classics Pie Dish