Guinness Shepherd’s Pie with Beef

Written by on in Lunch

Imagine a dish that warms your soul and fills your home with the comforting aroma of a hearty meal. The Guinness Shepherd’s Pie with Beef is just that—a rich and satisfying blend of savory ingredients perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply seeking a cozy weeknight dinner, this classic dish is sure to become a favorite.

An Introduction to Guinness Shepherd’s Pie

Originally hailing from the United Kingdom and Ireland, Shepherd’s Pie, also known as Cottage Pie, is a quintessential comfort food. This version is made with ground beef, peas, carrots, and onions, all enveloped in a flavorful sauce. The crowning glory of this dish is the creamy homemade mashed potato crust, which adds a delightful texture and flavor. The secret ingredient? Guinness beer, which infuses the beef filling with a deep, robust flavor. Alternatively, you can use beef broth for a family-friendly twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich Flavor: The addition of Guinness beer elevates the taste, adding depth and richness.
  • Perfect Comfort Food: With its savory filling and creamy topping, it’s the ultimate comfort meal.
  • Versatile: Suitable for special occasions or simple family dinners.
  • Easy to Make: Follow the straightforward steps for a delightful dish.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • 10-inch cast iron skillet
  • Large pot
  • Potato masher or electric mixer
  • Oven

Ingredients

Beef Filling

  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 8 ounces Guinness beer or beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 cups frozen peas and carrots

Mashed Potatoes

  • 2 pounds russet potatoes
  • ½ cup heavy cream or milk
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

To save time, start by preparing the potatoes, then work on the beef filling while the potatoes boil.

Meat Filling

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. In a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat, add the onions and crumble the ground beef into the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions become translucent.
  3. Add the butter and minced garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for another 30 seconds, then add the flour and stir to coat. Cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in the Guinness, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and thyme, stirring until well incorporated. Add the frozen peas and carrots, stirring to combine. Remove the pan from heat and set aside until the potatoes are ready.

Mashed Potatoes

  1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform sizes.
  2. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Over medium-high heat, bring to a boil. Reduce to medium heat and simmer until the potatoes fall apart when pierced with a fork. Drain well.
  3. Return the potatoes to the pot, add the heavy cream, and mash using a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth. Add butter, salt, and pepper, and mix until combined.
  4. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat filling. Optionally, use a fork to add texture to the top.
  5. Bake the pie, uncovered, for 30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling around the edges. Remove from the oven and serve.

Tips for Success

  • Ensure the potatoes are thoroughly drained before mashing to prevent a watery topping.
  • Using a fork to create patterns on the mashed potatoes can help them brown more evenly in the oven.

Additional Tips and Variations

  • For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
  • Add a sprinkle of cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking for an extra cheesy layer.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 23g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?

Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie and cover it tightly. If freezing after, let it cool completely before freezing.

Can I use lamb instead of beef?

Absolutely! Traditional Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, while Cottage Pie is made with beef. Feel free to use your preferred meat.

Conclusion

This Guinness Shepherd’s Pie with Beef is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. We invite you to try this recipe and share your culinary experience with us. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or friends, this hearty meal is sure to be a hit!