There are some meals that feel like a warm hug—and classic shepherd’s pie is definitely one of them.

This hearty British dish is packed with rich, savory flavors: ground lamb (or beef), a medley of vegetables, and a velvety mashed potato topping, all baked together into one golden, bubbling pie. It’s comfort food at its finest, ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekends at home.

If you’ve never made it from scratch, don’t worry—it’s easier than you think. Here’s our tried-and-true recipe for the best homemade shepherd’s pie.

🛒 Ingredients

For the meat filling:

2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 2 carrots, peeled and diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1½ pounds ground lamb (or ground beef for a “cottage pie” twist) 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 cup beef broth 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried) 1 cup frozen peas Salt and pepper, to taste

For the mashed potato topping:

2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped 4 tablespoons unsalted butter ½ cup whole milk (or cream for extra richness) Salt and pepper, to taste Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping

👩‍🍳 Directions

Boil the potatoes: In a large pot of salted water, boil potatoes until fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and mash with butter and milk. Season to taste. Set aside. Make the filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and carrots and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Brown the meat: Add the ground lamb to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Simmer the sauce: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and beef broth. Let simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Add frozen peas and season with salt and pepper. Assemble the pie: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface or using a fork to create decorative ridges. Bake to perfection: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden. For a crispier finish, broil for the last 2–3 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tip:

Add a splash of red wine to the meat mixture for even more depth. Or stir a bit of grated cheddar into the potatoes for a cheesy twist.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want delicious leftovers, shepherd’s pie delivers every time. Serve it with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, comforting meal.

Tried this recipe? Snap a photo and tag us on social media @STMDailyNews — we’d love to see your version!

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Related Links:

https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/easy_shepherds_pie/

https://www.thewholesomedish.com/the-best-classic-shepherds-pie/

 

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(Family Features) Different berries thrive in different conditions, making selecting varieties that are well-suited to your local climate key to a successful harvest. For instance, strawberries and blueberries prefer cooler climates while raspberries and blackberries can tolerate a wider temperature range. When selecting berries for your garden, consult local gardening experts or agricultural extensions, then consider these tips to ensure your berry harvest is bountiful and delicious. Planting Most berries prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. Ensure the planting site receives at least six hours of sunlight each day. Space plants to their specific requirements then add mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds and maintain soil temperature. Regular Maintenance Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. Also be sure to remove dead or diseased canes and thin out crowded areas to promote better air circulation and light penetration and prevent fungal diseases. Timing the Harvest Timing is everything when it comes to harvesting berries. Picking them at the right moment ensures maximum flavor and nutritional value. Berries should be fully ripe but not overripe and come off the plant easily with a gentle tug.

• Strawberries should be fully red with no green tips
• Blueberries should have a uniform blue color with a slight grayish bloom
• Raspberries should be deep in color and free from white or light pink hues
• Blackberries should be dark black and slightly dull

Immediately after picking, place berries in a cool, shaded area to prevent overheating and spoiling. Gently rinse berries in cold water before storing in the refrigerator. If storing longer, consider freezing berries in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. Find more tips for your garden at eLivingtoday.com.   Photo courtesy of Shutterstock   SOURCE: eLivingtoday.com

(Family Features) Rising food costs can make healthy eating a challenge for many families. In fact, a poll conducted by Research!America found about 60% of Americans cite the cost of healthy food as their single biggest barrier to achieving better nutrition. “Food is deeply rooted to family and community,” said Arlen Vanessa Marin, M.S., R.D., a national volunteer for the American Heart Association. “Recipes are passed down through generations, but as grocery prices rise, finding creative ways to stretch your budget while maintaining a nutritious diet is key. Simple swaps – like homemade vinaigrettes instead of sugary bottled dressings, frozen veggies instead of fresh or lentils instead of processed meat – can make a big difference without sacrificing flavor.” Consider these simple tips from the experts at the American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, to help you enjoy your favorite meals while keeping both your heart and wallet happy. Protein Without the Price Tag If you’re looking to add more protein without overspending, try these affordable, nutrient-packed options:

• Beans and other legumes are protein-packed, high-fiber choices for heart-healthy meals. Add them to soups, stews or salads, or enjoy them as dips with whole-grain crackers or tortillas. Choose canned, no-salt-added varieties for a quick and healthy option.
• Tofu and tempeh are versatile, plant-based staples that are rich in protein. Add silken tofu to miso soup, stir-fry firm tofu with garlic for a heart-smart meal or add tempeh to noodle dishes and curries.
• Ground turkey or chicken are leaner, often more affordable alternatives to ground beef. For a budget-friendly twist, try them in dishes like turkey picadillo or homemade tacos.

Better Grains for Your Heart White rice is a staple in many diets, but it can spike blood sugar. When refrigerated and reheated, it can increase resistant starch while also raising the risk of harmful bacteria. Consider these ways to keep it heart-smart:

• Brown rice is a fiber-rich alternative to white rice that pairs well with almost any dish.
• Quinoa is another protein-rich grain that works in soups, salads and side dishes.
• Barley is used in many Asian soups as a whole-grain swap.

Canned, Dried and Frozen Alternatives Healthy eating doesn’t mean you have to buy everything fresh, especially when fresh food isn’t readily available. Canned, dried and frozen foods can be just as nutritious and help eliminate costly food waste from spoilage as they stay edible longer. Check nutrition labels for low-sodium, no-salt-added and no-sugar-added options.

• Frozen fruits and vegetables are picked at peak ripeness and frozen to lock in nutrients. Use them in stir-fries, soups, smoothies or as quick side dishes.
• Canned tuna is packed with omega-3s, wallet-friendly and easy to mix with salads, sandwiches or in brown rice bowls.

To find more tips and budget-friendly recipes, visit recipes.heart.org.   Photo courtesy of Shutterstock   SOURCE: American Heart Association