This Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a cozy mix of tender meat, veggies, and rich broth, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Honestly, who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? I find myself having fun dolloping them on top and then mixing everything together. It’s one hearty meal that always hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: This is the heart of the recipe. If you want a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or chicken. They provide a different flavor but still work well in soup.
Potatoes: Russets are great for a creamy texture, but Yukon Golds also add buttery richness. Sweet potatoes could be a tasty and healthy twist, just keep an eye on cooking time.
Broth: Beef broth adds a robust flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, vegetable broth can do the trick. You can also use homemade broth for added depth.
Milk or Cream: For creaminess, I prefer heavy cream, but whole milk or even a plant-based alternative like cashew or oat milk can be used if you’re watching fat intake.
Tomato Paste: This adds richness. If you don’t have any, ketchup can work in a pinch, although it’s sweeter, so adjust other seasonings accordingly.
How Do You Make Sure the Vegetables Are Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the vegetables to the right texture is essential for a delicious soup. You want them soft but not mushy. Here’s how to make it work:
- Start by sautéing onions and garlic until soft; this enhances their flavors.
- Add the diced potatoes and carrots and cook for a few minutes before adding broth. This step helps to partially cook them before simmering.
- Simmer gently until they are fork-tender, checking occasionally to prevent overcooking.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have perfectly tender vegetables in your Shepherd’s Pie Soup!
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small chunks
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or a few fresh sprigs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
- Optional: cheddar biscuits or crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to make this hearty and comforting Shepherd’s Pie Soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef or lamb. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s nicely browned. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep the soup from being too greasy.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and fragrant. This step will build a wonderful flavor base for your soup.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, stir in the diced potatoes and carrots. Let them cook for another 5 minutes, giving them a chance to start softening up. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking!
4. Mix in Flavorings:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined, coating the vegetables and meat.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender. You can check them with a fork!
6. Finish It Off:
Stir in the milk (or cream) and then add the frozen peas. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 5 minutes, just until the peas are heated through. This will give it a nice creamy texture!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper if needed. You want it to be deliciously seasoned!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and if you like, enjoy it with some cheddar biscuits or crackers on the side. This soup is all about comfort, so dig in!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef for Another Meat?
Absolutely! Ground lamb is traditional for shepherd’s pie, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly with different meats.
How Do I Store Leftover Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground meat with plant-based crumbles or just add more vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a full vegetarian version.
What Can I Serve With Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with cheddar biscuits, bread, or simple crackers. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal!