This Shepherd’s Pie Soup combines all the comforting flavors of the classic casserole into a hearty, warm, and flavorful soup. With tender ground meat, vegetables, and a creamy potato topping-inspired broth, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a cozy meal without the fuss of baking.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb (traditional for shepherd’s pie)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup diced potatoes (optional, for extra heartiness)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Mashed Potato Topping Effect:
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Garnishes:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled bacon
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Ground Meat
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon.
- Drain excess fat if necessary and season with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Broth
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Pour in the beef or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the diced potatoes (if using) and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Mashed Potato Mixture
- Stir in the milk or cream to add richness to the broth.
- Gradually whisk in the mashed potatoes, letting them melt into the soup to create a creamy, velvety texture.
Step 5: Add the Peas
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until they are heated through.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Shepherd’s Pie Soup
- Use Lamb for Authenticity: Traditional shepherd’s pie uses lamb, while ground beef is more common in "cottage pie." Choose based on your preference.
- Control the Consistency: For a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot. For a thinner soup, add more broth.
- Make It Vegetarian: Replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
- Prepare in Advance: The flavors develop even more after resting, so this soup is great for making ahead and reheating.
Why You’ll Love It
This Shepherd’s Pie Soup is:
- Hearty and Satisfying: A warm, filling meal in a bowl.
- Rich and Creamy: The mashed potato addition creates a silky, luxurious texture.
- Packed with Flavor: Classic ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and thyme bring depth.
- Customizable: Easily adapted for dietary preferences or additional vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine or iced tea to complement the flavors.