Shepherd’s Pie Soup

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplified Preparation: Enjoy the essence of Shepherd’s Pie without the need for baking or layering.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or to accommodate dietary preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Carrots, peeled and diced
• Celery stalks, diced
• Beef broth
• Diced tomatoes
• Frozen peas
• Dried thyme
• Worcestershire sauce
• Smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Heavy cream or milk (optional, for added creaminess)

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced carrots and celery into the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in the dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender.
4. Finish with Peas and Cream: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional few minutes. If a creamier texture is desired, add the heavy cream or milk, stirring to combine.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Optionally, top with a spoonful of mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: About 15 minutes.
• Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a traditional Shepherd’s Pie flavor, or use ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables such as corn, green beans, or mushrooms to enhance the soup’s heartiness.
• Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can be added for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup has thickened during storage, add a splash of broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.

FAQs

What is Shepherd’s Pie Soup?

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a deconstructed version of the traditional Shepherd’s Pie, combining all its classic ingredients—ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings—into a hearty soup.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes in this soup?

Yes, topping the soup with a dollop of leftover mashed potatoes adds authenticity and extra comfort to the dish.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the ground meat with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a slurry made from cornstarch and water.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meat and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

What type of cheese works best for topping?

Sharp cheddar cheese complements the flavors well, but feel free to use your preferred type of cheese.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling in the soup?

Ensure that the soup is not boiling when you add the cream. Stir continuously and add the cream slowly to prevent curdling.

Can I add wine to enhance the flavor?

A splash of red wine can deepen the flavor. Add it after sautéing the vegetables and allow it to reduce slightly before adding the broth.

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?

To make the soup gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients, including broths and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.

What side dishes pair well with Shepherd’s Pie Soup?

Crusty bread or a simple side salad pairs wonderfully with this hearty soup.

Conclusion

Shepherd’s Pie Soup offers a delightful twist on a classic dish, providing all the comforting flavors in a convenient, one-pot meal. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and is sure to become a family favorite.

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