Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl

When chilly days call for something heartwarming and hearty, Shepherd’s Pie Soup steps up to deliver. Imagine the savory flavors of a classic shepherd’s pie—rich meat, tender vegetables, and a topping of creamy mashed potatoes—transformed into a comforting soup that’s easy to make and perfect for cozy evenings. This recipe captures everything you love about shepherd’s pie in a bowl of soul-warming goodness.

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Why You’ll Love This Shepherd’s Pie Soup

Shepherd’s Pie Soup brings all the coziness of a casserole but with the convenience and warmth of a soup. The ground lamb or beef simmers with a medley of tender carrots, celery, and peas in a savory, herb-infused broth. To top it all off, creamy mashed potatoes are scooped right on top for the perfect finishing touch! Here’s why this recipe will be your new favorite:

1. Classic Comfort: The traditional flavors of shepherd’s pie but with a twist!
2. Easy to Make: Less assembly than the traditional baked version but just as flavorful.
3. Perfect for Chilly Days: Rich, hearty, and warms you from the inside out.
4. Versatile: Use ground lamb or beef, and swap ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

What Does Shepherd’s Pie Soup Taste Like?

This soup combines the rich, savory notes of ground meat, hearty vegetables, and a deeply flavorful broth. The thyme and rosemary add earthy depth, while Worcestershire sauce brings in a touch of tang. The best part? A creamy mashed potato “topping” that melts right into the soup, creating an ultra-satisfying, velvety texture with every bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Soup

• 1 lb ground lamb or beef – Adds richness; lamb for more traditional flavor or beef for a milder option.
• 1 medium onion, diced – For subtle sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts savory flavor.
• 2 carrots, diced – Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
• 2 celery stalks, diced – Provides a mild, aromatic base.
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth – Sets the foundation for a robust soup.
• 2 cups frozen peas – Adds a pop of sweetness and texture.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – For richness and a hint of acidity.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Enhances umami depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a woodsy note.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary – Complements the thyme with a hint of piney flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed – Use russets or Yukon gold for a smooth mash.
• 1/2 cup milk – Adds creaminess to the mash.
• 2 tablespoons butter – For richness and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley – For a fresh, vibrant finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large soup pot – For cooking the soup base.
• Potato masher – To create smooth, creamy mashed potatoes.
• Wooden spoon – For sautéing and stirring the soup.
• Ladle – For easy serving.

How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup: Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Meat

• In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground lamb or beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

3. Add Broth and Seasonings

• Stir in the beef or vegetable broth, frozen peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.

4. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

• While the soup is simmering, boil the cubed potatoes in a separate pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

5. Mash the Potatoes

• Add the milk and butter to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve the Soup

• Ladle the shepherd’s pie soup into bowls and top with a generous scoop of the mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness.

What to Serve with Shepherd’s Pie Soup

This soup is satisfying enough on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for extra freshness. If you’re looking for something a little heartier, consider pairing it with a side of roasted root vegetables or steamed green beans.

Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie Soup

• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer longer to reduce the broth. For a thinner consistency, add a splash more broth.
• Season to Taste: Remember to taste the soup and mashed potatoes as you go, adding salt and pepper as needed.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the fresh parsley! It brightens up the soup and enhances its presentation.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store mashed potatoes separately for best texture.
• Freezer: This soup freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if it’s too thick. Reheat the mashed potatoes separately and scoop on top when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes can save time! Prepare according to package instructions and add to the soup as a topping.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add mushrooms, green beans, or corn for extra variety and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and broth. Always double-check labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and a plant-based meat substitute or additional vegetables, like mushrooms or lentils, for extra heartiness.

Conclusion: A New Comfort Classic

Shepherd’s Pie Soup brings all the cozy vibes of traditional shepherd’s pie, but in a spoonable, sippable form. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food without all the assembly. This soup is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike, whether it’s a family meal or a solo night in.

Try this recipe and let us know how it turned out! Share your photos and tag us on Pinterest or Instagram.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 6g

Looking for more cozy dinner ideas? Check out these reader-favorite recipes: Chicken Pot Pie Soup, Loaded Baked Potato Soup, Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

Enjoy the warmth, comfort, and ease of this Shepherd’s Pie Soup, and happy cooking!

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