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Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato

Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato

5.2 from 28 reviews

Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the rustic charm of a baked russet potato with the savory, rich flavors of a classic shepherd’s pie filling. Topped with creamy mashed potatoes and optional cheddar cheese, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Baked Potatoes:

  • 4 large russet potatoes – The perfect size for stuffing.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps crisp up the potato skin.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor.

For the Shepherd’s Pie Filling:

  • 1 pound ground beef or ground lamb – Traditional Shepherd’s Pie flavors.
  • 1 small onion, diced – Adds a sweet, caramelized depth.
  • 2 carrots, diced – Brings a subtle sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must for flavor!
  • 1 cup beef broth – Forms the base of the savory filling.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Adds richness and umami.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the depth of flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme – Adds warmth and earthiness.
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary – A classic herb pairing.
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • ¾ cup frozen peas – Adds a touch of sweetness and color.

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

  • ½ cup milk – Makes the mashed potatoes creamy.
  • 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness.
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder – A subtle, savory kick.
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – For an extra cheesy finish.

Instructions

  1. Bake the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the russet potatoes clean, then pat them dry. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape. Rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to enhance flavor and crispness. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
  2. Make the Shepherd’s Pie Filling: While the potatoes bake, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your choice of ground beef or lamb and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if necessary. Add diced onion, carrots, and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper for flavor. Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Finally, mix in the frozen peas and remove the skillet from heat.
  3. Make the Mashed Potato Topping: Once the potatoes are baked and cool enough to handle, carefully slice off the top third of each potato. Using a spoon, scoop out most of the fluffy potato flesh into a bowl, leaving a thin layer inside the skin to maintain structure. Mash the potato with milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese for an extra indulgent topping.
  4. Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes: Spoon the hearty shepherd’s pie filling into the hollowed-out baked potato skins, filling them generously. Top each stuffed potato with a good scoop of the mashed potato mixture. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle more shredded cheddar on top if you like.
  5. Bake & Serve: Arrange the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and place them back into the oven preheated at 400°F. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the mashed potato topping turns lightly golden and heated through. Remove from the oven, serve warm, and enjoy a comforting, delicious meal!

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a more traditional shepherd’s pie flavor.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, use a plant-based meat substitute and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
  • The cheddar cheese topping is optional but adds a lovely savory richness.
  • Be sure not to over-scoop the potato flesh to keep the skins sturdy for filling.
  • Leftover stuffed potatoes reheat well in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F.

Nutrition

Keywords: Shepherd’s Pie, Baked Potato, Comfort Food, Ground Beef, Ground Lamb, Mashed Potato Topping, Hearty Dinner, British Cuisine