Forget everything you thought you knew about shepherd’s pie because this Guinness-infused version is about to blow your mind. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any day you’re craving comfort food with a boozy kick.
Why This Recipe Works
- The Guinness adds a deep, malty flavor that complements the savory meat and vegetables beautifully.
- Using a mix of ground lamb and beef gives the pie a rich, complex taste.
- The creamy mashed potato topping is the perfect contrast to the hearty filling.
- It’s a one-dish meal that’s both impressive and easy to make.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup Guinness stout
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Potato masher
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground lamb and beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter pie.
Step 2: Simmer with Guinness
Pour in the Guinness, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat and simmer until the liquid is reduced by half, about 10 minutes. Stir in the peas and remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the meat mixture simmers, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add the milk and butter, mashing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: For extra creamy potatoes, warm the milk before adding.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, using the back of the spoon to create peaks that will brown nicely. Tip: For a golden crust, brush the top with a little melted butter.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbling, about 25 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For an even deeper flavor, try browning the meat in batches to ensure a good sear. If you’re short on time, frozen mixed vegetables can be used in place of fresh. For a crispy topping, broil the pie for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Experiment with adding different herbs to the mashed potatoes, such as rosemary or thyme, for an extra flavor dimension. Remember, the key to a great shepherd’s pie is seasoning at every step, so don’t be shy with the salt and pepper.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meat with lentils and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Cheesy Topping: Mix grated cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes before topping the pie.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for some heat.
- Sweet Potato Topping: Use mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular for a sweeter, healthier twist.
- Lamb Only: For a more traditional flavor, use all ground lamb instead of a beef and lamb mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pie up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.
What can I use instead of Guinness?
If you’re not a fan of Guinness, any stout or dark beer will work. For a non-alcoholic version, beef broth is a good substitute, though you’ll miss some of the depth of flavor.
Can I freeze shepherd’s pie?
Yes, shepherd’s pie freezes well. Cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Summary
This Guinness Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty, flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. With its rich meat filling and creamy potato topping, it’s sure to become a favorite. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, it’s a versatile dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.