Slow-cooked ultra-rich lamb ragu with luscious and creamy mashed potatoes. A comforting meal perfect for midday or weekend dinner. The recipe includes a hearty lamb filling and a rich, cheesy mashed potato topping, baked to perfection. The mini casserole dishes used for individual servings add a special touch to this classic comfort food.
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In a medium-high skillet, add 1 tsp of extra virgin olive oil. Add the lamb mince and break it up with a spoon.
Cook until the water evaporates and the lamb starts to brown. This will take about 7-8 minutes.
Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.
Add the tomato paste, finely chopped rosemary, and thyme. Mix to combine.
Deglaze the pan with red wine and cook for 2 minutes.
Add 300 mL of stock (lamb or chicken) and simmer on low for 40-45 minutes until thick and luscious.
Add some green peas and mix. The filling is done.
Peel, wash, and dice the potatoes. Boil them until very tender.
Use a fork or a potato ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth and lump-free.
Add butter, cream, salt, and pepper. Mix to combine.
Add the cooled lamb ragu to a baking dish or 4 individual mini casseroles, filling them about 60-70% full.
Top with the mashed potatoes. Use a piping bag for rosettes or a spoon to level it out, then score a few lines with a fork.
Grate some Parmesan on top.
Bake in the oven at 200°C for 30 minutes or until the top is crisp.
Optional: Use a blow torch to brown the top before it starts to crisp in the oven.
For a deeper flavor, use a good quality red wine like Pinot Noir.
Make sure to simmer the ragu until it is thick and luscious for the best texture.
Use a potato ricer for the smoothest mashed potatoes.
If you don’t have mini casserole dishes, use a single large baking dish.
For extra crispiness, broil the top for a few minutes after baking.
Can I use ground beef instead of lamb?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef for lamb, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lamb ragu and mashed potatoes in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving.
What can I use instead of red wine?
You can use beef or chicken stock as a substitute for red wine, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Can I freeze Shepherd's Pie?
Yes, Shepherd's Pie freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
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