Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food, loved for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. But what if you could enjoy all the deliciousness of Shepherd’s Pie in soup form? Enter Shepherd’s Pie-Inspired Soup—a warm, cozy bowl of goodness that brings the essence of this beloved dish into a spoonful. Perfect for chilly nights or a comforting family dinner, this recipe combines savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and the creamy touch of mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- Ground beef, 1 pound
- Onion, diced, 1 medium
- Garlic cloves, minced, 2
- Carrots, peeled and diced, 2
- Celery sticks, chopped, 2
- Beef broth, 2 cups
- Chopped tomatoes, 1 (14 oz) can
- Frozen peas, 1 cup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Mashed potatoes, 2 cups
Brown the Meat
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor as the meat caramelizes. Stir frequently to ensure the beef cooks evenly.
Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the garlic releases its aroma. This creates the flavorful base for your soup.
Cook the Vegetables
Next, stir in the diced carrots and chopped celery. These vegetables add both nutrition and texture to the soup. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, allowing them to begin softening while absorbing the flavors from the beef and onion mixture.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the beef broth and canned chopped tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Allow the soup to simmer for 15–20 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together and ensures the vegetables become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking at the bottom of the pot.
Add the Peas
Stir in the frozen peas during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Peas add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, balancing the rich, savory flavors of the soup.
Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous spoonful of mashed potatoes. The creamy mashed potatoes not only add a traditional Shepherd’s Pie touch but also elevate the dish into a truly comforting meal.
Tips for Success
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Customize with Herbs
Add a sprinkle of fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the soup for an extra layer of flavor. These herbs complement the savory notes of the beef and vegetables. -
Perfect for Leftovers
Have leftover mashed potatoes from another meal? This soup is an excellent way to use them up and reduce food waste. -
Adjust the Texture
Prefer a thicker soup? Add a tablespoon of tomato paste during the simmering stage or reduce the liquid slightly. -
Swap the Protein
If you’re not a fan of beef, ground turkey or lamb are great alternatives that work just as well in this recipe.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie-Inspired Soup?
Yes, but freeze the soup base without the mashed potatoes. When ready to serve, prepare fresh mashed potatoes for topping.
What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Add a bit of broth or water to loosen it if needed.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Blanch and peel fresh tomatoes, then dice them finely. You’ll need about 4–5 medium tomatoes to replace a 14 oz can.
Shepherd’s Pie-Inspired Soup is a versatile, hearty dish that combines the comforting flavors of a classic casserole with the ease of a one-pot soup. Serve it on a chilly evening or make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week. It’s sure to become a family favorite!