Shepherd’s Pie Soup

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort dish, and turning it into a soup makes it even more delightful and easier to prepare. This hearty Shepherd’s Pie Soup combines all the flavors you love from the traditional dish into a warm, satisfying bowl perfect for any season. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients

• Potatoes: 1 1/2 pounds, peeled and diced
• Ground Beef (or Lamb): 1 pound
• Onion: 1 cup, diced
• Carrots: 1 cup, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, chopped
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Chicken Broth (or Beef Broth): 4 cups
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Rosemary: 1 teaspoon
• Thyme: 1 teaspoon
• Bay Leaves: 2
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Sour Cream: 1/3 cup
• Aged White Cheddar Cheese (optional): 1 cup, shredded
• Frozen Peas: 1 cup
• Salt and Pepper: to taste

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Place half of the diced potatoes in a pot.
2. Cover with water, bring to a boil, and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Vegetables

1. In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef (or lamb) with the diced onions and carrots.
2. Break apart the meat as it cooks until fully browned.
3. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

1. Stir in the chopped garlic and tomato paste.
2. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Seasonings

1. Add half of the broth to the saucepan.
2. Add the remaining diced potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Potato Puree

1. Drain the boiled potatoes.
2. Puree them with the sour cream, butter, and the remaining broth.
3. Stir the puree into the soup mixture.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Peas

1. Once the diced potatoes are tender, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and let it melt, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the frozen peas and heat for another 2 minutes.

Step 7: Season and Serve

1. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Tips

• For a Vegan Version: Replace ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. Substitute butter with vegan butter and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Calories: 460 per serving
• Servings: 6

This Shepherd’s Pie Soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and packed with flavors that will warm your heart. Enjoy!