Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that mixes all the great flavors of the classic pie into a warm bowl. With ground meat, veggies, and creamy potatoes, it’s a real comfort food!
It’s like having a hug in a bowl! I love to top mine with some extra cheese or a sprinkle of herbs for fun. Easy to make and perfect for chilly days—who wouldn’t want seconds?
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: This is where the meaty goodness comes from! I often use ground beef for its flavor and affordability, but lamb adds a richer taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or even lentils work great too.
Onion and Garlic: These are key for a flavorful base. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder is a decent substitute. Red onions can be swapped in for a milder taste.
Beef Broth: This gives the soup its depth. If you’re short on time, use low-sodium broth or bouillon cubes. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works perfectly too.
Potatoes: I like using Russets for their fluffiness, but Yukon Golds hold their shape better if you prefer firmer texture. Sweet potatoes could also add a nice twist!
Carrots and Peas: Fresh is best, but frozen veggies are super convenient. If you don’t have peas, corn or green beans can also work well.
Milk or Cream: This gives the soup a creamy finish. Use half-and-half for more richness or a plant-based milk if you’re dairy-free. Almond milk works surprisingly well here!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
The secret to a flavorful soup lies in the sautéing stage. Start by heating your pot over medium heat. After adding the olive oil or butter, toss in your onions first. Let them soften for about 3-4 minutes. This draws out their natural sweetness.
- Add minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute. This prevents the garlic from burning and turning bitter.
- Add your meat and brown it well. Don’t rush this step—browning adds fantastic flavor!
- When adding the herbs and seasonings, give them a minute to cook before you proceed. This helps release their full flavor.
Remember, seasoning is key throughout the cooking process! Taste and adjust as needed. Happy cooking!
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or fresh, chopped)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For Garnishing:
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives)
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese or biscuits (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Shepherd’s Pie Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to enjoy a delicious, warm bowl of comfort that’s perfect for any meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start Sautéing the Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This will make the base of your soup flavorful.
2. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
3. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef or lamb. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Continue to cook until the meat is nicely browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
4. Mix in the Flavor Boosters:
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for 1-2 minutes to blend all the flavors together nicely—it’s going to smell awesome!
5. Add the Veggies and Broth:
Now, toss in the diced potatoes and carrots. Pour in the beef broth and give it a good stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer until the potatoes and carrots are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
6. Stir in the Peas:
After the veggies are tender, add the frozen peas to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes. This will help the peas heat through while keeping a nice pop of freshness.
7. Add Creaminess:
Turn down the heat a bit more and stir in the milk or cream to give the soup a creamy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve It Up:
Your Shepherd’s Pie Soup is ready! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top or serve it with buttery biscuits on the side. Enjoy this warm and hearty dish!
This soup captures all the comforting flavors of a classic shepherd’s pie in a cozy bowl that’s perfect for any day of the year. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter option and still work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, so you might want to increase your seasonings a bit for extra depth.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This will still provide a hearty and satisfying soup while keeping it meat-free!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a pot over low heat, adding a little extra broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it!