Shepherd’s Pie Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. If you’re using lean meat, you may need the oil to prevent sticking; if your meat is fattier (like lamb), you can skip the oil.
2. Add the ground meat to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Broth

1. Add the carrots, potatoes, and peas (and corn if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine with the meat and onions.
2. Pour in the beef broth, add the Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the potatoes have softened.

Step 3: Make the Topping

1. If you’re not using leftover mashed potatoes, prepare them now. Boil peeled and diced potatoes in salted water until tender (about 10 minutes). Drain and mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
2. Serve the soup in bowls, then spoon a generous dollop of the mashed potatoes on top of each serving. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes and place the bowls under the broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese and give the potatoes a crispy top.
3. Alternatively, you can stir the mashed potatoes directly into the soup for a creamier texture, making it even heartier.

Tips for Success:

• Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: If you have leftover mashed potatoes from another meal, this is a perfect way to repurpose them and save time. If you don’t have leftovers, making fresh mashed potatoes is simple and ensures that the topping is soft and creamy.
• Customizing the Vegetables: Feel free to swap or add more vegetables based on your preferences. Green beans, parsnips, or celery can all make great additions.
• Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or lamb, and opt for a lower-fat broth or even vegetable broth.
• Leftovers: This soup reheats beautifully and actually gets even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Why Shepherd’s Pie Soup Is Perfect:

• All-in-One Meal: This soup contains everything you need—protein, vegetables, and carbs—all in one bowl. It’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t require any sides or extras.
• Comforting and Filling: With its rich flavor, creamy potatoes, and hearty vegetables, this soup is perfect for cold days when you need something warm and filling.
• Versatile: Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a weeknight meal, Shepherd’s Pie Soup can easily be scaled up or down. Plus, it’s a great dish for meal prep.

Conclusion:

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a delightful twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, offering the same comforting flavors in a quick and easy soup format. With a hearty broth, savory meat, and creamy mashed potato topping, this soup is a perfect choice for cozy dinners, especially during colder months. It’s not only delicious but also customizable to suit your preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Try it today, and enjoy the comforting flavors of a beloved classic, now in soup form!