Shepherd Pie Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish

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Shepherd’s Pie Soup takes the hearty, comforting flavors of the traditional shepherd’s pie and transforms them into a warm, creamy, and satisfying soup. Perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something cozy, this dish combines ground meat, tender vegetables, and rich mashed potato flavors in a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious.

Why Shepherd’s Pie Soup is So Popular

  1. Comfort Food at Its Best: Combines the familiar flavors of shepherd’s pie with the coziness of soup.
  2. Easy One-Pot Recipe: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
  3. Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day.
  4. Family-Friendly: A dish everyone at the table will enjoy.

Ingredients

To make a delicious pot of Shepherd’s Pie Soup, you’ll need:

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground lamb
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping (Optional):

  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping (Optional):

  1. Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender (about 10-12 minutes).
  2. Drain the potatoes and mash with butter and milk. Season with salt to taste. Set aside.

Make the Soup Base:

  1. Cook the Meat:
    • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef or lamb and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  3. Add Flavor:
    • Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Create the Base:
    • Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, then gradually add the broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
  5. Simmer:
    • Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened. Add frozen peas and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
  6. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of mashed potatoes for the ultimate Shepherd’s Pie experience.

Tips for Perfect Shepherd’s Pie Soup

  1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add a fragrant touch to the soup.
  2. For a Thicker Soup: Add more mashed potatoes directly to the soup base.
  3. Customize the Meat: Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian option.
  4. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
  5. Meal Prep: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Customization Ideas

  • Cheesy Twist: Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the soup or sprinkle it on top of the mashed potatoes.
  • Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with lentils and use vegetable broth.
  • Add a Crunch: Serve with crusty bread or sprinkle crispy fried onions on top.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Conclusion

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a comforting and flavorful twist on a beloved classic. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a hearty meal, this soup is easy to make, customizable, and sure to satisfy the whole family. Follow the recipe above to enjoy all the cozy flavors of shepherd’s pie in a warm, spoonable form.

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