There’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of a warm, hearty bowl of soup on a chilly evening. If you love traditional Shepherd’s Pie, you’re going to adore this Shepherd’s Pie Soup—a delightful, creamy, and savory twist on the classic dish. This soup captures all the best parts of Shepherd’s Pie—seasoned ground beef (or lamb), tender vegetables, a rich and flavorful broth, and creamy mashed potatoes—all in one bowl of goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Comfort Food in Soup Form – If you’re a fan of Shepherd’s Pie, this soup takes all the familiar flavors and turns them into a cozy, spoonable dish.
- Perfect for Cold Weather – This warm and hearty soup is just what you need on a chilly fall or winter night.
- One-Pot Wonder – Easy cleanup and minimal dishes!
- Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to fit dietary needs or preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground lamb for traditional Shepherd’s Pie flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean meat)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 1 ½ cups mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. If using beef or lamb with a higher fat content, you won’t need oil. Otherwise, add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Add the ground beef (or lamb) to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the meat aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in tomato paste and let it cook for a minute, allowing the flavors to develop. Then, pour in beef broth, and add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Return the cooked meat to the pot and let everything simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add Peas, Corn & Mashed Potatoes
Add the frozen peas and corn in the last 5 minutes of cooking. This keeps them vibrant and tender.
To thicken the soup, stir in mashed potatoes and heavy cream (if using). Stir well to incorporate everything smoothly. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy, hearty flavors!
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Want It Thicker? If you prefer a stew-like consistency, add extra mashed potatoes or reduce the broth slightly.
- Make It Dairy-Free – Skip the heavy cream and cheese, or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Slow Cooker Option – Brown the meat and sauté the veggies beforehand, then add everything (except mashed potatoes and dairy) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir in mashed potatoes and cream before serving.
- Make It Vegetarian – Swap the beef/lamb for lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Extra Hearty? Add cooked barley or small pasta for more texture.
- Spice It Up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
What to Serve with Shepherd’s Pie Soup
This soup is filling on its own, but you can serve it with:
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
- Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans complements the flavors well.
FAQs
Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes work as a thickener too.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! This soup is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your Worcestershire sauce and broth labels.
Final Thoughts
This Shepherd’s Pie Soup is the ultimate comfort food in a bowl. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or cozying up on a cold night, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Try this delicious recipe today, and let me know how it turns out! 😊🍲
What’s your favorite comfort soup? Let me know in the comments below!