The Hairy Bikersâ Shepherdâs Pie is a classic comfort food dish, combining flavorful ground meat with vegetables, topped with a creamy mashed potato crust. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners, bringing a touch of homely warmth to the table.
In this post, I will show you how to make the Hairy Bikers shepherds pie recipe, step by step, with tips and tricks along the way.
You will learn how to:
- Prepare the lamb filling with onion, carrot, celery, garlic, rosemary, oregano, red wine, tomato paste, stock, and Worcestershire sauce
- Make the cauliflower mash topping with olive oil, crème fraiche, dill, and cheese
- Assemble and bake the pie in an ovenproof dish
- Serve and enjoy the pie with green beans or cabbage
Letâs get started!
What is Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie?
Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie is a delicious and comforting dish that is inspired by the classic British shepherdâs pie. It is made with minced lamb, vegetables, herbs, and gravy, topped with a creamy cauliflower mash instead of the traditional potato mash. It is baked in the oven until golden and crisp and served with a green salad or some steamed cabbage. It is a great way to use up leftover lamb, or you can buy fresh minced lamb from your butcher. It is also gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly if you omit the cheese.
This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 2 hours to make, including 30 minutes of baking time. Itâs a great way to use up leftover lamb, or you can buy fresh minced lamb from your butcher. You can also make the filling and the mash ahead of time, and refrigerate them until youâre ready to bake the pie.
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Why You Love this Recipe
- Ease of Preparation: Simple steps and ingredients make this recipe accessible for all cooking levels.
- Hearty and Fulfilling: Ideal for cold evenings or family gatherings, providing a satisfying meal.
- Flavorful: The combination of savory lamb and creamy cauliflower offers a rich taste experience.
- Healthier Option: Lower in carbs and higher in nutrients compared to classic shepherdâs pie.
- Flexibility: Can be made ahead, frozen, or adapted to dietary needs.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie
To make Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie, you need following ingredients
For the filling:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 400 grams of minced lamb
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 2 large carrots, coarsely grated
- 1 large beetroot, coarsely grated
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 100 milliliters of red wine (optional)
- 400 grams of canned chopped tomatoes
- 250 milliliters of lamb, chicken, or vegetable stock
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce
For the topping:
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 large cauliflower (800 grams to 1 kilogram), finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of crème fraiche or sour cream
- A few sprigs of fresh dill, finely chopped
- 50 grams of cheddar cheese, grated (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie
Follow these simple steps, to make this recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven and brown the lamb
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (180 degrees Celsius fan-forced, or gas mark 6).
- Heat a large frying pan over high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the lamb mince and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned all over.
- Transfer the lamb to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat.
Step 2: Cook the vegetables and herbs
- In the same pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, celery, carrot, and beetroot, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes, or until soft and slightly caramelized.
- Add the garlic, rosemary, and oregano, and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
Step 3: Add the liquids and seasonings
- Return the lamb to the pan, and pour in the red wine, if using. Bring the mixture to a boil, and simmer until most of the wine has evaporated. If not using the wine, skip this step and add the tomatoes and stock directly.
- Stir in the tomatoes and stock, and season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and reduced.
Step 4: Make the cauliflower mash
- While the filling is cooking, prepare the topping. Heat the oil in a large lidded sautĂŠ pan over high heat.
- Add the cauliflower and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to turn translucent.
- Add a splash of water and season with salt. Cover the pan with a lid and let the cauliflower steam for about 10 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain the excess water and transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl.
- Mash the cauliflower with a potato masher, a fork, or a stick blender, until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the crème fraiche or sour cream, and the dill. Add the cheese, if using, and season with more salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Assemble and bake the pie
- Spoon the lamb filling into a large ovenproof dish, spreading it evenly.
- Spoon the cauliflower mash over the filling, covering it completely and sealing the edges.
- Use a fork to create some texture on the surface of the mash, and sprinkle some more cheese on top, if desired.
- Bake the pie in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the topping is golden and crisp.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy with some green beans or shredded cabbage on the side, if you like.
What Do I Serve With Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie?
While the Hairy Bikers Shepherdâs Pie is a fulfilling dish in itself, pairing it with complementary sides can enhance the mealâs overall appeal and nutritional balance.
Consider these enticing options:
- Green Beans or Shredded Cabbage: Opt for a simple yet elegant side of green beans or cabbage, either lightly steamed or sautĂŠed in a touch of butter and a hint of garlic. This addition not only adds a crunch to your meal but also a burst of color and freshness.
- Vibrant Green Salad: Assemble a refreshing salad with crisp lettuce, fresh cucumber, ripe tomatoes, and a zesty dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and cracked black pepper. This salad is a light and healthy accompaniment that cleanses the palate.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: For a heartier side, roast a medley of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, turnips, and beets. Toss them in olive oil, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of rosemary, then roast until they are tender and caramelized, offering a sweet and earthy flavor.
- Peas or Corn: A simple yet delightful side of peas or corn, either boiled or sautĂŠed in a bit of butter, seasoned with salt and pepper, provides a classic touch to this comforting meal.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie
- Enhancing the Lamb Filling: Elevate the richness of the lamb filling by incorporating ingredients such as crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, sweet peas, juicy corn, or melty cheese for added depth of flavor and texture.
- Achieving Creamy Cauliflower Mash: For a smoother and creamier cauliflower mash, utilize a food processor or blender. This technique will ensure a consistently smooth texture, enhancing the overall mouthfeel of the dish.
- Crispier Topping: Sprinkle grated cheese or breadcrumbs over the cauliflower mash before baking for a golden, crispy crust. This adds a delightful crunch and a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Moist and Juicy Pie: To maintain the pieâs moisture, consider adding a bit more stock or water to the lamb mixture. For the first 15 minutes of baking, cover the pie with foil, then uncover for the last 10 minutes, allowing the top to crisp up nicely.
Variations of Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the lamb with plant-based mince and use vegetable stock and vegan cheese for a vegetarian-friendly version without compromising on taste.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: For a dairy-free alternative, simply omit the cheese and opt for dairy-free crème fraiche, sour cream, or even plain yogurt.
- Different Meat Choices: Feel free to use different types of meat such as beef, chicken, or turkey, adjusting the stock to complement your choice of protein.
- Alternative Mash Options: If cauliflower isnât to your preference, try using mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin for the topping, seasoning them according to your taste for a different twist on the traditional shepherdâs pie.
How do I store Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie Leftovers?
- Refrigeration: To keep the shepherdâs pie fresh in the fridge, first, allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, cover it securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent any air exposure. Stored like this, the pie will remain fresh for up to three days. Make sure itâs kept in a part of the fridge with a stable temperature.
- Freezing: For longer storage, the shepherdâs pie can be frozen. After it cools down, wrap it tightly with foil, ensuring itâs completely sealed to avoid freezer burn. It can be safely stored in the freezer for up to three months. Labeling the wrapped pie with the freezing date is a good practice for easy reference.
How do I reheat Hairy Bikers Shepherds Pie Leftovers
- Oven Reheating: If youâre reheating the pie from the fridge, preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (160 degrees Celsius if itâs fan-forced, or gas mark 4). Place the pie in the oven and heat it for about 40 to 50 minutes, or until itâs thoroughly warmed and the top is bubbly. If youâre reheating from frozen, let the pie thaw overnight in the fridge first, then follow the same reheating instructions. Covering the pie with foil for the first half of reheating can prevent the top from drying out or burning.
- Microwave Reheating: For a quicker option, the shepherdâs pie can be reheated in the microwave. Cut it into individual portions for even heating. Place a portion on a microwave-safe dish, and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture in. Heat on high for 5 to 10 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even reheating. The time may vary depending on the microwaveâs power and the portion size.
Nutrition value per serving:
- Calories: 438 kcal
- Fat: 27 g
- Carbohydrate: 19 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Fiber: 9 g
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 408 mg
- Cholesterol: 91 mg
 FAQs
Can I make the Hairy Bikers Shepherdâs Pie vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt the recipe to be vegetarian or vegan. Replace the minced lamb with a plant-based mince alternative. For a vegan version, ensure that the stock, crème fraiche, and cheese are also plant-based. The versatility of this recipe makes it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Is it possible to make the shepherdâs pie gluten-free?
Absolutely. To make the Hairy Bikers Shepherdâs Pie gluten-free, use gluten-free stock and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well. Most of the other ingredients, including vegetables and meat, are naturally gluten-free.
How can I make the cauliflower mash topping more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of the cauliflower mash, you can add additional ingredients such as roasted garlic, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or a variety of cheeses like Parmesan or Gruyère for a richer taste. Another option is to mix in some herbs like chives or parsley for added freshness.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Hairy Bikers Shepherdâs Pie?
While the shepherdâs pie is a hearty dish on its own, it pairs well with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing, and steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or glazed carrots can complement the pie well. For a more traditional approach, serve it with buttered peas or crusty bread to soak up the gravy.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed this recipe for the Hairy Bikers shepherdâs pie. Itâs a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. If you try it, please let me know what you think in the comments below. Iâd love to hear from you!