This hearty gluten-free shepherd’s pie is a cozy classic! It’s filled with savory ground meat and topped with creamy mashed potatoes that are simply irresistible.
Every bite feels like a warm hug, and the best part? You won’t even miss the gluten! I love making it on chilly nights when comfort food is a must. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing and adds flavor. If you prefer, you can use avocado oil or canola oil, which have higher smoke points.
Onion and Garlic: These two add depth to the filling. For a sweeter touch, try shallots instead of onions. Garlic powder can substitute fresh garlic if you’re in a pinch.
Ground Beef or Lamb: I love using ground lamb for its rich taste, but you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option for a lighter version.
Carrots & Peas: Both are classic choices in shepherd’s pie. If you don’t have peas, you could add green beans or corn – even bell peppers work. Fresh vegetables can also be used if you prefer.
Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for creamy mashed potatoes. For a twist, try sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a lighter mash.
Milk or Cream: I generally use whole milk for creaminess, but almond milk or coconut milk (for a dairy-free version) are great substitutions.
How Do I Make the Perfect Mashed Potatoes?
Getting your mashed potatoes just right is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to do it simply:
- Start by boiling your peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain them well so there’s no excess water. This makes for creamier mash.
- Add butter and milk (or your chosen alternative) and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper!
Tip: For extra creaminess, you can use a potato ricer! It’s a game changer for fluffy mash.
How to Make Gluten-Free Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth (gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (dairy-free milk can be used for a dairy-free version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook in the oven. Overall, you should set aside around 40 minutes to make this delicious gluten-free shepherd’s pie from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when your pie is assembled.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
In a large pot, add the peeled and cubed potatoes and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Once cooked, drain the potatoes well.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
In the same pot, mash the drained potatoes with butter and milk until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside for later.
4. Cook the Filling:
While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it’s softened. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
5. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through.
6. Add the Vegetables:
Mix in the diced carrots, frozen peas, and corn if you’re using it. Cook everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
7. Combine Ingredients:
Now, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme leaves, and broth. Mix well and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
8. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Add the Mashed Potatoes:
Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the meat filling, spreading it to cover everything completely. Use a fork to create a bit of texture on the surface to help it brown nicely in the oven.
10. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden and slightly crispy around the edges.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your shepherd’s pie with some additional fresh thyme leaves before serving. Enjoy your hearty, gluten-free meal!
Can I Substitute the Ground Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef or lamb are traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
How Do I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make the shepherd’s pie dairy-free, simply use dairy-free butter and any plant-based milk such as almond or coconut milk in the mashed potatoes. The filling is already dairy-free with the ingredients listed!
Can I Prepare This In Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just combine and bake when you’re ready to serve.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
