If you're like me, you might have tasted or heard of Shepherd's Pie, but never really questioned where it's from or where it originated? This delicious ground meat pie with a crust or a mashed potato topping, also known as cottage pie, originated as British comfort food and is more specifically known as an Irish delicacy. Since the Irish were never really into beef, this dish was first made out of lamb or mutton by shepherds, hence the name. But the British loved beef, and sparked an increase in beef production in Ireland, so naturally, the Shepherd's Pie evolved into having a beef filling, which is now the more common variant within the United States. Regardless, every variation of the Shepherd's Pie is absolutely delicious, especially the one below!

Shepherd's Pie Recipe

This recipe and photos were created by Graham, a Loubier Gourmet Ambassador. Graham is a phenomenal cook who runs a mouthwatering Instagram page by the name of @cookingwithcarrrl. Check out his page for more delicious recipes, mouthwatering food photos, cute pics of his dog Carl, and more!

Beef Filling Ingredients

1.5 pounds of ground beef 
1 white onion, diced 
3 cloves of garlic, minced 
3 carrots, diced
3/4 cup frozen peas 
3/4 cup frozen corn
2 tablespoons flour 
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce 
1 tablespoon tomato paste 
1 cup beef stock 
1/2 tablespoon Loubier Gourmet Hot or Mild All Purpose Seasoning 

Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

2 pounds of peeled potatoes 
1/3 cup heavy cream 
1 stick salted butter 
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese 
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
Salt & pepper to taste 

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt. Add your potatoes and boil until fork tender. Around 10 minutes. 

Step 2: While the potatoes are boiling, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 5 minutes. Add in carrots and garlic, cook for 3 minutes. Season with 1/2 tablespoon of Loubier Gourmet Hot or Mild All Purpose Rub. 

Step 3: Add in your beef and remaining seasoning. Cook until no longer pink. If you are using a fat heavy ground beef be sure to drain a portion of the fat. Add in the Worcestershire Sauce. 

Step 4: Add in the flour and tomato paste. Mix and cook for one minute. Add in the peas and corn. 

Step 5: Next, add in the beef broth and cook for 5 minutes, until a gravy like texture is achieved. Set aside.

Step 6: When your potatoes are finished, drain and add them to a large bowl. Add in your cream, butter, cheese and parsley. Mash.

Step 7: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 

Step 8: Place your filling in a large baking dish or cast iron pan. Spread evenly and then top with the potatoes. Spread this layer evenly as well and place in the oven for 30 minutes. 

Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow the pie to rest for at least 15 minutes. Enjoy!