Can I use lamb instead of beef?

Absolutely, Traditional shepherd’s pie actually uses lamb (that’s why it’s called shepherd’s pie, after all). Ground lamb gives a richer, slightly gamey flavor—just drain any excess fat after browning since it can be greasier than beef. If you’re feeling fancy, try a lamb-beef blend for the best of both worlds.

How long does leftover shepherd’s pie keep in the fridge?

It’s good for 3-4 days in the fridge if stored properly (cooled first, then covered tightly). After that, toss it in the freezer where it’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. My test? If it still smells like savory, carby joy when you reheat it, you’re golden.

Why is my filling watery?

Usually means the beef mixture didn’t simmer long enough to reduce, or the veggies released extra moisture. Fix it next time by: 1) Simmering uncovered until the liquid thickens (should coat the back of a spoon), or 2) Stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) during the last minute of cooking. For now? Just serve it with a slotted spoon—still tastes amazing.

Can I make this ahead and bake it later?

Yes, Assemble the pie (cool the filling first so potatoes don’t sink), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be cold. Or freeze it unbaked—just wrap well and bake frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, covering the top if it browns too fast.

Budget-Friendly Shepherd’s Pie: 5-Star Comfort for Under $10 -

Name: Budget-Friendly Shepherd’s Pie: 5-Star Comfort for Under $10
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/4 cup milk; 2 tbsp butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Budget-Friendly Shepherd’s Pie: 5-Star Comfort for Under $10

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A classic comfort food made with simple ground beef and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This version uses affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

Author: RecipeZest
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British
Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
Drain potatoes and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook until vegetables soften.
Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.
Add frozen peas and simmer for 5 minutes.
Transfer beef mixture to a baking dish.
Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
Bake for 20 minutes until top is golden.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time.
Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
Freeze individual portions for easy meals.

Find it online: https://recipeszest.com/budget-friendly-shepherds-pie-recipe/