A hearty and comforting dish that combines the flavors of a traditional shepherd’s pie in a warm and inviting soup form. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or go for a blend of beef and lamb for a more traditional flavor.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Yellow or sweet onions work best for a sweeter taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic will enhance the overall flavor, but you can adjust according to your preference.
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Carrots add sweetness and color; you can also use parsnips for a different flavor.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Celery adds a nice crunch and depth to the soup.
- 2 cups beef broth: You can use homemade broth or store-bought; low-sodium options are available if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz): Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for an added smokiness.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Fresh peas can be used if in season, but frozen is convenient and retains flavor well.
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes: Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, or you can make them fresh for this recipe. Consider adding butter and cream for extra creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper will provide a nice kick.
Instructions:
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir occasionally, allowing them to soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. This will enhance the soup’s texture and flavor.
- Pour in Broth and Tomatoes: Carefully add the beef broth and diced tomatoes into the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
- Add Peas: After simmering, stir in the frozen peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peas are heated through and vibrant in color.
- Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference. Adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. For a delicious finishing touch, top each serving with a generous spoonful of prepared mashed potatoes. You can swirl them in or leave them on top for a more rustic presentation. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Enjoy Your Meal!
This Shepherd’s Pie Soup is not only nourishing but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding other vegetables like corn or green beans, or even swapping out the beef for ground turkey or chicken. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that will remind you of home!
Let me know if you need any further modifications or additional recipes!