Real Maine Shepherd’s Pie

Ingredients

For the Maine Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs White potatoes
• ½ cup butter (softened)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)

For the Meat & Veggie Filling:

• 1 lb ground lamb (traditional) or ground beef (if preferred)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried rosemary
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp flour (to thicken)

Instructions

Prepare the Maine Potato Topping:

• Peel and chop the Maine potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
• Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Stir in cheddar cheese (if using). Set aside

Cook the Filling:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground lamb (or beef) until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
• Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and peas, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
• Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
• Sprinkle in flour, stirring to coat the meat and veggies. Pour in beef broth, stirring until the mixture thickens (about 3 minutes).

Assemble & Bake:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Spread the meat filling evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Spoon the Maine potato mash over the top and spread evenly. Use a fork to create ridges for a crispy finish.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
• Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve warm!

Get your locally grown Maine potatoes at Walmart!