Shepherd’s Pie Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shepherd’s Pie Soup combines the best of both worlds: the delicious flavors of a traditional shepherd’s pie with the convenience of a soup. The beef broth makes for a rich, savory base, while the ground beef adds a satisfying protein component. The vegetables provide freshness and texture, and the frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness. Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly night or looking for a simple and delicious dinner option, this recipe will hit the spot!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 cup frozen peas

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, and bring to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you like.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Add Potatoes: For a more traditional shepherd’s pie feel, add cubed potatoes to the soup. You can boil them alongside the other vegetables or add them in during the simmering stage for a heartier meal.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This will result in a leaner soup while still maintaining its comforting taste.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a meatless option.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of spice, add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the soup base for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much in the fridge, add a little extra beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make Shepherd’s Pie Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then add them to the slow cooker along with the broth, diced tomatoes, and peas. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

2. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as parsnips, zucchini, or green beans. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Shepherd’s Pie Soup is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check the labels on the beef broth and diced tomatoes to ensure they don’t contain any gluten.

4. Can I use ground lamb instead of beef?

Yes, traditionally, shepherd’s pie is made with ground lamb, so feel free to substitute lamb for a richer flavor. It will work perfectly in this soup.

5. How can I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the vegetables or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the soup during the simmering process.

6. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. In fact, the flavors will continue to develop and improve the longer it sits!

7. Can I add cheese to the soup?

Certainly! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top can add a deliciously creamy element to the soup, making it even more like a shepherd’s pie.

8. What kind of beef broth should I use?

You can use any beef broth you prefer, whether homemade or store-bought. If you like a richer, more robust flavor, go for a low-sodium beef broth.

9. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas?

Yes, fresh peas can be used instead of frozen peas. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the soup.

10. Can I serve this soup with bread?

Yes, serving Shepherd’s Pie Soup with some crusty bread or a slice of garlic bread is a great way to complete the meal. The bread will help soak up the delicious broth.

Conclusion

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is the ultimate comfort food that blends all the goodness of a classic shepherd’s pie with the warmth and heartiness of a soup. This simple, yet satisfying recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or cozy nights in. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and endless variation options, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!