Shepherd's pie, that beloved comfort food, gets a delicious makeover in this hearty and flavorful soup. This recipe retains all the classic elements – tender ground meat, earthy vegetables, and a creamy, comforting finish – but with a lighter, soup-based presentation perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal. Forget the fuss of individual portions; this one-pot wonder is ready in under an hour.
What Makes This Shepherd's Pie Soup Recipe So Special?
This isn't your average stew. We've meticulously crafted this recipe to capture the essence of shepherd's pie while offering a unique twist:
- Rich and Savory Broth: Instead of a thick mashed potato topping, we build a rich and flavorful broth that infuses every ingredient with depth.
- Tender Vegetables: Carrots, peas, and corn add sweetness and texture, complementing the savory ground meat perfectly.
- Easy One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is a bonus! Everything simmers together in one pot for effortless meal preparation.
- Adaptable to Your Preferences: Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Add mushrooms, potatoes, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground lamb (or beef) to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add Seasoning and Broth: Stir in the thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer and Thicken: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Gradually whisk the milk mixture into the simmering soup. Continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add Vegetables and Worcestershire Sauce: Stir in the peas, corn, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are heated through.
- Cheese (Optional): Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (if using) until melted.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
FAQs:
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian substitute like lentils would work well in this recipe. Just adjust the seasoning to complement the chosen meat.
What if I don't have all the vegetables listed?
No problem! Feel free to substitute with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Potatoes, mushrooms, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Best Shepherd's Pie Soup:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in lamb shanks to make your own broth.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick.
- For a thicker soup, simmer for a longer period or add a cornstarch slurry.
This Shepherd's Pie Soup is a true crowd-pleaser. Its comforting flavors and ease of preparation make it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy!
