Shepherd's Pie with Side Salad

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Potato Topping

   • Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and add 1 tsp of salt. Cover with cold water by at least an inch.
   • Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork.
   • Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot, empty pot for 1 minute to steam dry.
   • Mash the potatoes until smooth. Add the butter, warm milk, egg yolk, and remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Beat until creamy and fluffy. Set aside.
2. 2

   Cook the Lamb and Vegetables

   • While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Add the ground lamb and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, for 5-7 minutes until well-browned. Drain off any excess fat.
   • Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet with the lamb. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. 3

   Create the Savory Gravy

   • Sprinkle the flour over the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavor.
   • Gradually pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the frozen peas, chopped thyme, and rosemary. Season the filling with the final 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper, or to your taste.
4. 4

   Assemble and Bake

   • If not using an oven-safe skillet, transfer the lamb filling to a 9x13 inch or similar 2-quart baking dish.
   • Spoon the mashed potato topping over the filling, spreading it gently to the edges to create a seal.
   • Use the back of a fork to create ridges and peaks on the potato surface, which will become crispy and golden.
   • Place the dish on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the potato topping is beautifully golden brown.
5. 5

   Rest and Serve

   • Remove the Shepherd's Pie from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This crucial step allows the filling to set, ensuring clean slices.
   • Serve warm and enjoy this classic comfort dish.