Shepherd's Pie Soup combines the hearty flavors of the traditional casserole with the cozy warmth of a soup. Packed with ground meat, vegetables, and a rich, savory broth topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this recipe brings comfort to your table in a creative, spoonable format.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced potatoes (optional, for extra heartiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the potatoes until tender (about 15–20 minutes), then drain.
- Mash the potatoes with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until creamy. Set aside.
- If desired, mix in shredded cheddar cheese for an extra indulgent topping.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3–5 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
3. Brown the Meat
- Add the ground beef or lamb to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.
- Drain any excess grease.
4. Build the Broth
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1–2 minutes to combine.
- Add the broth and diced potatoes (if using), bringing the soup to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add the Peas
- Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and flavor.
6. Assemble the Soup
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Spoon or pipe a dollop of mashed potatoes onto the surface of each bowl.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired, and let it melt into the soup.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Shepherd's Pie Soup
- Rich and Flavorful: Use beef broth for a deep, savory flavor. A splash of red wine can also enhance the broth.
- Creamy Potatoes: Add a little sour cream to the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
- Adjust Consistency: For a thicker soup, mash some of the diced potatoes directly in the broth.
Variations
- Vegan Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles, use vegetable broth, and make dairy-free mashed potatoes.
- Add Grains: Stir in barley or quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle heat.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store soup and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup base (without potatoes) for up to 3 months. Add fresh mashed potatoes when reheating.
- Reheat: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop and stir in a splash of broth if it thickens.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a Bowl: All the flavors of Shepherd's Pie in a cozy, spoonable format.
- Easy to Customize: Adaptable to your dietary preferences or pantry staples.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Enjoy this hearty Shepherd's Pie Soup—a comforting, creative twist on a beloved classic that’s sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites. 🥣✨
