Close-up shot of four miniature shepherd's pies with golden-brown tops and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese in a rustic baking dish

Cheese platter

miniature shepherd's pies with cheddar cheese

By Ellie Parker

Published: 18 Feb 2025

These individual miniature shepherd's pies are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. They're perfect for a cozy night in, a casual get-together, or even a special occasion. I love how easy they are to make, and the individual portions are great for meal prep or portion control! One time I made these for a potluck, and they were gone in minutes!
A family gathered around a table enjoying the miniature shepherd's pies
The recipe combines tender lamb, vibrant vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all topped with a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese. The cheddar adds a salty, sharp counterpoint to the rich lamb and creamy potatoes – it's amazing! I experimented with different cheeses once, and cheddar still reigns supreme.
A close-up of a single miniature shepherd's pie, showcasing the layers

Required Equipments

  • 9x5 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Potato masher or ricer
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Miniature-Shepherd's-Pies-with-Cheddar-Cheese

These individual miniature shepherd's pies are a delicious and easy-to-make twist on a classic comfort food, featuring a rich lamb filling, creamy mashed potatoes, and a generous topping of sharp cheddar cheese.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 1 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch baking dish. This is crucial for easy removal later!
  2. Prepare the filling: In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground lamb over medium-high heat. Once browned, drain off any excess grease. Season generously with salt and pepper. Add 1 finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. This adds depth of flavour! Simmer for another 2 minutes.
  3. Add the vegetables: Add 2 cups of frozen peas and 1 cup of chopped carrots to the lamb mixture. Cook for 5 more minutes, or until the carrots are tender. Don't overcook the peas; you want them bright and vibrant.
  4. Make the mashed potato topping: While the filling simmers, peel and boil 2 pounds of potatoes until tender. Mash them with 1/4 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of butter, and salt and pepper to taste. You want it super fluffy and creamy, so don't be stingy with the butter. If it seems dry, add a bit more milk.
  5. Assemble the pies: Spoon the lamb mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle generously with 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. It's not a Shepherd's Pie without ample cheddar!
  6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned – perfect!
  7. Let it cool: Let the pies cool slightly before serving. This is important to prevent burns! It's fine to enjoy a warm bite, but don't rush it and cause an accident.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious miniature shepherd's pies! They're perfect for a cozy night in or a delightful dinner party.

📝 Notes

  • Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or corn.
  • For a richer flavor, use bone-in lamb shoulder, then chop up the cooked meat after roasting. Takes time though!

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 300kcal

Protein: 20g

Fat: 15g

Carbohydrates: 25g

Fiber: 3g

Calcium: 50mg

Frequently Asked Questions

The best things in life are the simple things, like a perfectly crafted shepherd's pie.

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