Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe
Transform the classic shepherd’s pie into a hearty, flavorful soup! This comforting dish brings together tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and velvety mashed potatoes in every spoonful. Perfect for chilly days, this recipe is a satisfying twist on a beloved favorite.
Ingredients
To make this rich and filling shepherd’s pie soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 1 cup of frozen corn
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups of mashed potatoes (prepared separately)
- ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it browns, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the soup balanced in flavor and texture.
Sauté the Vegetables
To the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing its aroma to infuse the vegetables.
Incorporate the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth and stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook gently for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add the Frozen Vegetables
Stir in the frozen peas and corn, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and tender.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the soup is simmering, prepare your mashed potatoes if you haven’t done so already. Leftover mashed potatoes work wonderfully, but you can also whip up a quick fresh batch.
Serve with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to melt into the warm soup. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and a touch of herbaceous flavor.
Enjoy this comforting and hearty shepherd’s pie soup—it’s a delightful way to savor a classic dish in a new form!
Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie Soup
-
Customize Your Vegetables
- Substitute or add vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or parsnips for a twist.
- Use fresh corn instead of frozen for added sweetness when in season.
-
Elevate the Flavor
- For a richer taste, add a splash of red wine to the broth while simmering.
- A dash of hot sauce can bring a subtle kick to the dish for spice lovers.
-
Make It Lighter
- Opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version.
- Use low-sodium broth and reduced-fat cheddar to make the soup healthier.
-
Batch Cooking and Storage
- This soup freezes well! Exclude the mashed potatoes before freezing and add them fresh when reheating.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
-
Perfect Pairings
- Serve this soup with warm crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes work in a pinch, though freshly made or leftover mashed potatoes will provide the best flavor and texture.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce and any other store-bought ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add the mashed potatoes and cheese just before serving. For microwave reheating, warm the soup separately, then top with mashed potatoes and cheese.
Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the ground beef and prepare the mashed potatoes up to two days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and cook the soup.
Enjoy this creative and hearty shepherd’s pie soup—perfect for warming up and satisfying your comfort food cravings!