Classic Shepherd’s Pie with Aged Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

Bottle of red wine surrounded by four baked dishes and purple flowers on a light cloth background.

Make it a Moment

Comforting, hearty, and deeply satisfying, this Classic Shepherd’s Pie is the perfect companion to our Our Lady of Fatima wine. Layers of savory lamb and beef are simmered with carrots, onions, fresh herbs, and rich stock before being topped with creamy cheddar mashed potatoes and baked until golden and bubbling. The wine’s structure and depth beautifully complement the dish’s savory richness, while its vibrant fruit notes balance the earthy herbs and roasted flavors. This timeless family favorite is ideal for gathering around the table and sharing with those you love.

Yields6 Servings

Ingredients

Potato topping

2 ½ lbs russet potatoes

6 tbsp butter

½ cup whole milk

1 cup aged white cheddar, shredded

Salt & black pepper

Filling

¾ lb ground lamb

¾ lb ground beef

1 onion, diced

2 carrots, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp flour

¾ cup beef stock

4 sprigs thyme

2 sprigs rosemary

1 cup parsley, chopped

Olive oil, salt & pepper

Directions

Make the mashed potatoes

Boil potatoes until tender (15–20 min), mash with butter, milk, cheddar, salt + pepper.

Build the filling

Sauté onion + carrots in olive oil until soft.

Add garlic + herbs → cook 1 min.

Add meat, brown well.

Create depth

Stir in tomato paste → cook until darkened.

Add flour → cook 1 min.

Deglaze with beef stock (or splash of Cabernet) and simmer until thick.

Finish & assemble

Stir in parsley.

Transfer to baking dish, top with mashed potatoes (texture the top for crisp edges).

Bake

Bake at 375°F for ~30 min until bubbling + golden.