How to Make the Ultimate Shepards Pie: Koji Cooks' Best Recipe

SHEPARDS PIE

We create individual shepherd's pies using three types of meat; options like all beef, pork, lamb, or a meatloaf blend will yield excellent results. The shepherd's pies freeze exceptionally well, so feel free to make plenty!

SHEPARDS PIE - Recipe (serves 8)

MASHED POTATOES

3 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and cut in quarters, placed in a pot of salted cold water.

1.5 cups of milk

1 stick of sweet butter, sliced (8 tablespoons)

1/4 teaspoon fresh grated nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or more to taste.

METHOD

Bring the potatoes to a boil on high, then lower to a steady simmer and cook until tender, approximately 15 minutes. Meanwhile, gently warm the milk on low heat. Drain the cooked potatoes, return them to the hot pot, and coarsely mash using a potato masher. Using a wooden spoon, fold in the milk, butter, nutmeg, and salt. Taste and add more salt if needed. Set the potatoes aside to cool to room temperature.

MEAT FILLING

2 tablespoons sweet butter

1 pound ground beef 80/20

1 pound ground lamb

1 pound ground skinless sausage or ground pork.

2 cups diced onion

1 cup diced celery

1 cup of peeled, diced carrot.

2 tablespoons minced garlic

1 teaspoon dry thyme

3 bay leaves

1 six ounce can of tomato paste

1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 can of beer (12oz)

1 cup of beef stock

1/2 cup ketchup

1.5 teaspoons kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

2 teaspoons of sugar

extra virgin olive oil spray

chopped parsley for garnishing.

METHOD

In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, melt the butter and stir in the meats, sautéing until lightly browned, about 8 minutes. Add the onion, celery, carrot, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves, and sauté for 5 more minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, beer, stock, ketchup, salt, pepper, and sugar, increase the heat to high, and stir constantly until the sauce reaches a gravy-like consistency, about 5 minutes. Divide the meat mixture into individual baking dishes or use one large dish. Top with the potatoes, spray generously with olive oil pan spray, and bake at 375 degrees for about 20-40 minutes, depending on size or until bubbly. Brown briefly under a broiler if a crispy top is desired. top with a sprinkle of parsley.