Shepherd’s Pie Soup

Introduction

If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting meals, then Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a must-try recipe. This delicious soup combines the savory flavors of a classic shepherd’s pie in a warming, easy-to-eat soup form. The first time I made this dish, my family immediately loved it. We were all craving something filling and flavorful, and this soup completely hit the spot. The combination of tender ground beef, vegetables, and rich beef broth creates a hearty base, while the optional creamy touch adds a velvety smoothness that makes every spoonful a comforting delight. But the best part? You get to top the soup with mashed potatoes (or even crispy potato croutons) and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese – exactly like the topping of a shepherd’s pie! This dish has quickly become a family favorite, and I’m sure it will become one in your household as well.

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Why You’ll Love This Shepherd’s Pie Soup

There are so many reasons to love this Shepherd’s Pie Soup:

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is a meal on its own, packed with beef, vegetables, and a rich broth that makes it incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect option for a cozy dinner on a cold evening.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: It takes all the flavors you love from a classic shepherd’s pie and transforms them into a hearty soup. The combination of beef, carrots, celery, and peas creates a wonderful balance of flavors.
• Versatile: Whether you prefer a creamy soup with a rich texture or a lighter version, this recipe offers both options. Plus, you can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Topped Like Shepherd’s Pie: The crowning glory of this soup is the mashed potatoes or potato croutons on top, just like the classic shepherd’s pie topping. You can even add a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and fresh parsley to make it extra special.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup makes excellent leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop and improve with time.

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Ingredients

Main Soup 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

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Creaminess:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for a creamy texture)

Optional Toppings:

• Mashed potatoes or potato croutons
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat to make sure the soup isn’t greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot with the beef. Stir the mixture and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Add the frozen peas, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Add Creaminess (Optional)

If you prefer a creamy texture, now is the time to stir in the heavy cream or milk. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and thicken slightly.

Step 6: Serve the Soup

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with mashed potatoes or potato croutons, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley for garnish.

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Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories (without the mashed potatoes or toppings)

Macronutrients per serving (approximate):

• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Note: These nutrition facts are estimates based on standard ingredients. The addition of mashed potatoes or toppings will alter the calorie count.

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

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How to Serve

This Shepherd’s Pie Soup is perfect for cozy dinners, and there are many ways to enjoy it:

• Top with Mashed Potatoes: For an authentic shepherd’s pie experience, serve the soup with a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes on top.
• Add Potato Croutons: If you’re looking for a crunchy texture, top the soup with crispy potato croutons instead of mashed potatoes.
• Sprinkle with Cheddar Cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar cheese adds a rich, savory touch to the soup.
• Garnish with Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal flavor that complements the rich soup.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: A side of crusty bread for dipping is always a great option to complete the meal.

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Additional Tips

1. Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the soup for a spicy kick.
2. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a lighter version of this soup, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
3. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like parsnips, peas, or even green beans to make the soup even heartier and more nutritious.
4. Use Homemade Beef Broth: For the best flavor, use homemade beef broth or stock instead of canned broth. It adds depth and richness to the soup.
5. Freezer-Friendly: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Make a double batch and store individual portions for a quick and easy meal later.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make Shepherd’s Pie Soup ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use ground lamb instead of beef?
   Yes! Ground lamb is a traditional choice for shepherd’s pie and would work well in this soup too.
3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
4. Can I skip the cream or milk?
   Absolutely. The soup is just as delicious without the cream or milk, though it will be less creamy.
5. How can I thicken the soup?
   If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it for longer to reduce the liquid, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the broth.
6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
7. Can I add potatoes to the soup?
   Yes, diced potatoes can be added to the soup for extra heartiness. Add them after the vegetables and cook until tender.
8. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
9. Can I make this recipe without Worcestershire sauce?
   Yes, you can omit the Worcestershire sauce if you prefer, though it does add a nice umami flavor. Try soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar as a substitute.
10. What’s the best type of cheese for this soup?
    Sharp cheddar cheese is a great choice, but you can also use mozzarella, gouda, or even parmesan for a different flavor.

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Conclusion

This Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a comforting and hearty meal that brings all the flavors of the classic shepherd’s pie into a warm and satisfying soup. Whether you choose to add creaminess or keep it light, this soup is packed with vegetables, tender beef, and delicious seasonings. Topped with mashed potatoes or potato croutons and cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious. Enjoy a bowl of comfort with Shepherd’s Pie Soup today!

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