Shepherd’s Pie Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Shepherd’s Pie Soup is an irresistible comfort food that takes all the best parts of the classic dish and turns them into a creamy, savory soup. The combination of mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, ground beef, and mixed vegetables creates a rich and satisfying meal. The creamy broth perfectly complements the hearty ingredients, making it ideal for colder days or when you’re craving something cozy. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a Shepherd’s Pie without all the baking, so it’s much quicker to prepare.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, equal to 2 lbs.

• ¾ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup sour cream

• 1 lb. Ground Beef, 85% lean

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoons salted butter, divided

• ¼ cup flour

• 4 cups Chicken broth

• 2 cups half and half

• ¾ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon mustard powder

• ¼ teaspoon ground sage

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 ½ cups mixed frozen vegetables

• Salt/Pepper, to taste

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

Directions

1. Prep Work: Shred the cheese from a block, measure out the sour cream and half and half, and let them sit out at room temperature.

2. Cook the Beef: Over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned. Drain the grease and set the beef aside.

3. Boil & Mash Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into thirds. Place them in a stockpot, cover with 1 inch of water, and add the salt. Boil for 10-15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and mash with the sour cream and 1 tablespoon of butter. Set aside.

4. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

5. Whisk in Flour: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw taste of the flour.

6. Add Broth & Seasonings: Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously. Scrape any beef remnants from the bottom of the pot to add flavor. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and sage. Add the half and half, bring to a boil, and reduce to a simmer.

7. Add Mashed Potatoes: Stir in the mashed potatoes until well-combined. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend until creamy (or blend in batches in a regular blender).

8. Finish the Soup: Stir in the ground beef and frozen vegetables. Allow them to heat through for about 5 minutes.

9. Add Cheese: Remove from heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Be sure the soup isn’t too hot to ensure a creamy cheese melt.

10. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cups

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and add extra vegetables like peas, carrots, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to give the soup a little heat.

• Dairy-Free Version: Use non-dairy butter, sour cream, and cheese substitutes to make this soup dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Shepherd’s Pie Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add a little extra chicken broth or half-and-half to thin it out if it thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, but russet potatoes work best for a smooth, creamy mash.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a lighter version of this soup.

3. Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove when ready to serve.

4. How do I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the vegetables or use a potato masher to break up the potatoes even more.

5. Can I use frozen mashed potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen mashed potatoes if you’re in a hurry, though fresh potatoes will give the best texture.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add more vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.

7. How do I make the soup spicier?

To add a little spice, stir in some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños.

8. What is Worcestershire sauce for in this recipe?

Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.

9. Is there a way to make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic before adding all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

10. Can I use heavy cream instead of half and half?

Yes, you can use heavy cream for a richer, thicker soup, but half and half provides a good balance of creaminess without being too heavy.

Conclusion

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a comforting, creamy dish that brings together the best flavors of a classic Shepherd’s Pie in a quick and easy soup form. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends and can be customized with a variety of vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a comforting bowl of soup on a cold day, this recipe is sure to please.