Print

Cozy Slow Cooker Shepherds Pie with Tender Lamb

slow cooker shepherds pie - featured image

A comforting slow cooker shepherd’s pie featuring tender ground lamb simmered in a savory broth and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for easy, fuss-free dinners that feel like a warm hug.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground lamb (preferably grass-fed)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup beef or lamb broth (120 ml)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 large potatoes (~700g), peeled and chopped
  • 1/4 cup milk (60 ml, whole or dairy-free alternative)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (or dairy-free spread)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer and cook until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain well.
  2. Return potatoes to the pot or a large bowl. Add softened butter and milk, then mash until creamy but still slightly textured. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground lamb and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. To the browned lamb, add onion, garlic, and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  5. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to let flavors meld.
  6. Pour the lamb mixture into the slow cooker. Add broth and frozen peas, stir to combine.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until vegetables are tender and lamb is flavorful.
  8. About 30 minutes before serving, spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the lamb mixture in the slow cooker.
  9. Cover and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes until the potato topping is heated through and slightly golden on edges.
  10. Turn off the slow cooker, let sit for 5 minutes, then serve warm.

Notes

For a crispier topping, transfer the shepherd’s pie to a baking dish and broil the potatoes for 3-5 minutes. Stir the lamb mixture halfway through cooking for even flavor. Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamy mash. Use warm milk for better absorption. For gluten-free, check Worcestershire sauce or substitute with tamari. Ground beef can substitute lamb but flavor differs.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, shepherd's pie, lamb, comfort food, easy dinner, mashed potatoes, slow cooked lamb