Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil.
  2. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  4. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

  1. Add the ground lamb or beef to the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
  2. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 4: Build the Soup Base

  1. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring the meat and vegetables are evenly coated.
  2. Pour in the beef or chicken broth and add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
  3. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add the Final Ingredients

  1. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they are heated through.
  2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie Soup

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls, leaving a bit of room at the top for the mashed potato topping.
  2. Spoon a dollop of the creamy mashed potatoes onto each bowl of soup. For an extra touch, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the potatoes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and flavor.
  2. Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or rolls on the side to soak up the delicious broth.

Tips for Success

  1. Choose Your Meat: Traditional Shepherd’s Pie uses lamb, but ground beef works just as well and is often more accessible.
  2. Adjust the Consistency: For a thicker soup, simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid slightly. For a thinner soup, add an extra splash of broth.
  3. Customize Vegetables: Add corn, green beans, or mushrooms to the vegetable mix for extra variety.
  4. Make It Ahead: The flavors of this soup deepen over time, making it a great option for meal prep. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Variations

  1. Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils and substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth.
  2. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Add more cheese or a dollop of sour cream to the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
  3. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers to the soup for a bit of heat.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover soup and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze the soup base (without the mashed potatoes) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Heat the mashed potatoes separately and assemble before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

  • Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a complete meal in one bowl.
  • Comforting Flavors: The rich broth and buttery potatoes recreate the essence of Shepherd’s Pie with every bite.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, it’s a perfect dish for cooks of all skill levels.

Conclusion

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a comforting twist on a classic favorite, combining the best elements of the original dish into a warm, hearty soup. With its rich broth, tender meat, and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for cold nights or whenever you need a comforting meal, this soup is as easy to make as it is satisfying. Try it today and enjoy the cozy, delicious flavors of Shepherd’s Pie in every spoonful!