What is the difference between shepherd’s pie and cottage pie?

Shepherd’s Pie uses ground lamb , while Cottage Pie uses ground beef . Both have the same structure—meat filling topped with mashed potatoes—but the protein changes the name.

What is traditional shepherd’s pie made of?

Traditional Shepherd’s Pie includes ground lamb, onions, carrots, peas, gravy, and mashed potatoes . Some recipes add Worcestershire sauce or herbs for extra flavor.

Can I use ground beef in shepherd’s pie?

Yes! Using beef makes it Cottage Pie , but it’s just as delicious. Many home cooks prefer beef for its milder taste and availability.

How do you thicken the filling for shepherd’s pie?

Simmer the meat mixture until the liquid reduces, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) to thicken the gravy.

Easy Shepherd's Pie Recipe – Comfort Food Classic!

Description

A classic comfort dish made with seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, baked until golden.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground lamb or beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a skillet, cook ground meat with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, vegetables, and beef broth. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
In a separate pot, boil potatoes until tender. Mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Spread meat mixture in a greased baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing with a spoon.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the potatoes before baking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: British

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: shepherd’s pie, cottage pie, mashed potatoes, comfort food