Craving the hearty goodness of a traditional shepherd’s pie but looking for something quicker and cozier? Enter Shepherd’s Pie Soup, a warm, satisfying dish that combines all the classic flavors of the beloved casserole into a rich, easy-to-make soup. This recipe is perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or when you want a comforting meal without all the layering and baking.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (optional topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef or lamb over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté Vegetables
Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Build the Base
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Sprinkle the flour (or cornstarch) over the mixture and stir to combine.
4. Add Broth and Simmer
Slowly pour in the beef or chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Add Veggies
Stir in the carrots, peas, and corn. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with a spoonful of mashed potatoes or a dollop of cream. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Shepherd’s Pie Soup
1. Choose Your Protein
While lamb is traditional for shepherd’s pie, ground beef or even turkey works beautifully in this soup.
2. Add Mashed Potatoes Wisely
For a true shepherd’s pie experience, dollop creamy mashed potatoes on top of each bowl before serving. To avoid sogginess, add them right before eating.
3. Make It Your Own
- Low-carb version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower mash.
- Vegetarian option: Replace meat with lentils and use vegetable broth.
Health Benefits of Shepherd’s Pie Soup
This soup is more than just comfort food—it’s packed with nutrients:
- Protein: Ground meat provides essential amino acids for muscle health.
- Fiber: Carrots, peas, and corn help support digestion.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Ingredients like carrots and parsley are rich in vitamins A and C, boosting your immune system.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, and add mashed potatoes fresh before serving.
2. Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Yes, freeze the soup (without the mashed potato topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Shepherd’s Pie Soup takes everything you love about the classic casserole and turns it into an easy, soul-warming dish. It’s perfect for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone looking for a comforting bowl of goodness. Try this recipe today and enjoy the timeless flavors of shepherd’s pie in every spoonful!
Let us know how you customized your Shepherd’s Pie Soup in the comments below!