Shepherd's Pie with Sweet Potato Topping

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 6)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, cut into ¼-inch dice
• ½ pound white button mushrooms, trimmed and cut into ½-inch pieces
• 1¼ pounds cooked lamb stew meat, cut into chunks (or ground lamb)
• 1 six-ounce can tomato paste
• 1⅔ cups homemade or low-sodium canned beef stock
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
• ½ cup heavy cream, heated
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato Topping

   • Preheat the oven to 450°F. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, and bake until they are tender and can be pierced with a fork, about 30 to 45 minutes. Remove from the oven, and allow them to cool slightly. Once cool, reduce the oven heat to 400°F.

2. Prepare the Filling

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent, about 8 to 10 minutes.
   • Add the mushrooms and cook until they are softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
   • Stir in the lamb, tomato paste, beef stock, and oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook until the mixture bubbles and thickens, approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
   • Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart casserole dish or a deep-sided ceramic pie dish.

3. Mash the Sweet Potatoes

   • Peel the baked sweet potatoes and pass them through a food mill or potato ricer into a medium bowl. Add the heavy cream and melted butter, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and combined.

4. Assemble and Bake

   • Spread the sweet potato mixture over the lamb mixture in a swirling pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
   • Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F until the sweet potato topping is browned and the filling is heated through, about 40 minutes. Remove from the oven, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Shepherd’s Pie pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or a side of sautéed greens. For a wine pairing, consider a full-bodied red, like a Shiraz or Malbec, to complement the rich flavors of the lamb and sweet potato.

Tips for the Perfect Shepherd’s Pie

• Flavorful Topping: The sweet potatoes offer a delightful contrast to the savory lamb, giving a hint of sweetness and a velvety texture.
• Sauté Your Veggies: Cooking the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots until they’re tender ensures a deep, savory base that complements the lamb beautifully.
• Layered Texture: The combination of hearty lamb and smooth, creamy sweet potatoes offers a delightful balance of textures, making every bite satisfying.

This Shepherd's Pie is ideal for a cozy family dinner, providing comfort and warmth on a chilly evening. Enjoy this updated classic and create a new family favorite!