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Caribbean-Inspired Shepherd’s Pie

shepherds pie in plate and in baking dish

Growing up in the Caribbean, what we called Shepherd’s Pie was always made with ground beef, never lamb. I’d follow Mommy to the shops and market and never once saw ground lamb for sale. So yes, technically this version is a Cottage Pie since it uses beef, but in Caribbean homes, the name Shepherd’s Pie stuck.

This version came about as a way to use up leftovers from the night before, including some grilled steak and green peppercorn gravy. The smoky steak added a rich, deep flavor while the vegetables and seasoned mashed potatoes brought comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cleaning out the fridge or craving a hearty, one-dish meal, this Caribbean-inspired Shepherd’s Pie brings home-cooked goodness to your table with every forkful.

shepherds pie in baking dish and in a dish

Ingredient Guide

  • Ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base; medium fat content adds flavor without excessive grease.
  • Leftover steak : Adds depth and a smoky flavor to the filling.
  • Onion: Adds sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
  • All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the meat mixture into a hearty filling.
  • Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami flavor that enhances the meat.
  • Thyme: A staple herb in Caribbean cooking, adding earthy notes.
  • Tomato paste: Provides richness and a hint of acidity.
  • Beef stock: Forms the base of the meat sauce; adjust quantity for desired consistency.
  • Mixed vegetables (frozen): A convenient mix of corn, peas, beans, and carrots adds color and nutrition.
  • Gravy: Leftover gravy, like green peppercorn, adds extra flavor and moisture.
  • Cooked mushrooms: Adds an earthy flavor and meaty texture.
  • Mashed potatoes: Creamy topping made with milk, butter, black pepper, and roasted garlic.
  • Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a savory, golden crust.
  • Parsley: Finely chopped and mixed with cheese for a fresh finish.

Shopping Made Easy

  • Ground beef: Available in varying fat contents; medium is recommended for flavor and moisture.
  • Mixed vegetables: Frozen blends are convenient and readily available in grocery stores.
  • Beef stock: Can be found in the soup aisle; opt for low-sodium versions to control saltiness.
  • Parmesan cheese: Available pre-grated or in blocks; adds a sharp, nutty flavor.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

  • If using lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken, add a tablespoon of your favorite oil when browning to prevent sticking.
  • Incorporate a teaspoon of green seasoning when browning the ground beef for a Caribbean twist.
  • Feel free to fold in 1/2 cup of your favorite grated cheese into the mashed potatoes for added richness.
  • To achieve a golden crust, create ridges on the surface of the mashed potatoes before baking.
  • Place the baking dish on a cookie sheet to catch any bubbling over during baking.

What’s the difference between Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie?

Traditional Shepherd’s Pie is made with ground lamb, while Cottage Pie uses ground beef. In the Caribbean, ground beef is more commonly used, and the dish is often referred to as Shepherd’s Pie regardless.

Can I use other meats besides ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground lamb, turkey, or chicken. Leftover meats, like steak or roast can also be added for extra flavor.

How can I make the mashed potato topping extra creamy?

Incorporate milk, butter, black pepper, and roasted garlic into your mashed potatoes. Ensure they’re at room temperature before spreading over the meat mixture for easier handling.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 1 hr
Total Time 1 hr 20 mins
Cuisine:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Diet: Beef
Description

A hearty Caribbean-inspired take on the classic shepherd’s pie, using ground beef, leftover steak, and a medley of vegetables, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef (medium)
  • 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup leftover steak (optional, diced)
  • 1 large onion (diced)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 sprigs thyme (leaves only)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1-2 cups beef stock
  • 1 1/2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen)
  • 1 cup gravy (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cooked mushrooms (optional)
  • 5 cups mashed potatoes (seasoned with milk, butter, black pepper, and roasted garlic)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon parsley (finely chopped)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Prepped ingredients for shepherd's piePreheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2
    Ground beef in a skillet being stirred with a wooden spoonIn a wide nonstick sauté pan over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook for 7–10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned.
  3. 3
    Browned ground beef being stirred with a wooden spatulaAdd diced leftover steak and cooked mushrooms (if using) to the pan. Stir to combine.
  4. 4
    Add diced onion, thyme leaves, black pepper, and salt. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 3 minutes until the onion softens.
  5. 5
    Add in onion, leaves of the thyme, black pepper and saltSprinkle in the flour and stir well to cook out the rawness, about 2–3 minutes.
  6. 6
    Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  7. 7
    Pour in 1 1/2 cups beef stock and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
  8. 8
    Add in frozen vegetablesAdd mixed vegetables and bring the mixture to a boil.
  9. 9
    mixed frozen vegetables and gravyIf using, add leftover gravy to the pan. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken. Add more beef stock if needed.
  10. 10
    Simmering filling on the stoveTaste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  11. 11
    Filling in an over proof square dishPour the meat mixture into an 8x10-inch ovenproof baking dish.
  12. 12
    Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat mixture. Combine parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, then sprinkle over the mashed potatoes.
  13. 13
    Add mashed potatoes on topCreate ridges on the mashed potato surface with a fork for a golden crust.
  14. 14
    Cooked shepherd's pie resting in baking dish on the stovePlace the baking dish on a cookie sheet or tray to catch any overflow. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  15. 15
    shepherds pie in plate and in baking dishRemove from oven and let rest for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Note

Please follow along with the video below as much more is explained within. As far as using the gravy, steak and mushrooms, it’s what I had leftovers (including the mashed potato) from the night before. Optionally you may fold in 1/2 cup (grated) of your fav cheese and I’m sure the “Caribbean” in you will want a teaspoon or so of Green Seasoning when you brown the grown beef.

Read it online: https://caribbeanpot.com/recipes/shepherds-pie/