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Masala Shepherd’s Pie topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked mince base.
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Masala Shepherd’s Pie

Masala Shepherd’s Pie features spiced minced meat baked under a layer of creamy mashed potatoes. A hearty, flavour-packed comfort bake perfect for family meals.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Bake Time25 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Masala Shepherd’s Pie
Servings: 4
Calories: 214kcal

Ingredients

For the Filling

  • 15 ml oil
  • 70 g onion chopped (1 small onion)
  • 8 g garlic minced (2 cloves)
  • 250 g minced lamb or cooked lentils
  • 2.5 g garam masala 1 teaspoon
  • 1.25 g turmeric ½ teaspoon
  • 1.25 g chili powder ½ teaspoon
  • 200 g diced tomatoes
  • Salt to taste

For the Topping

  • 500 g potatoes boiled and mashed
  • 30 g butter 2 tablespoons
  • 60 ml milk ¼ cup
  • 1.25 g cumin powder ½ teaspoon
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a pan. Add onion and garlic; cook 3 min.
  • Add lamb (or lentils) and spices. Cook 5 min.
  • Stir in tomatoes and simmer 10 min until thick.
  • Mix mashed potatoes with butter, milk, and cumin.
  • Spread the filling into a small baking dish and top with the mash.
  • Bake at 190 °C / 375 °F for 20 min until golden.

Notes

Ingredient swaps
  • Use beef or chicken mince instead of lamb if preferred.
  • Cooked lentils work well for a vegetarian version.
  • Olive oil can replace butter in the topping for a lighter option.
Technique tips
  • Cook the filling until thick so the pie holds its shape when baked.
  • Mash the potatoes while hot for a smoother topping.
  • Spread the mashed potatoes evenly to seal in the filling.
Make-ahead and storage
  • Assemble the pie up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.
Serving ideas
  • Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
  • A spoon of yogurt or raita on the side adds freshness.
  • Enjoy it on its own as a complete meal.
Twist ideas
  • Add peas or carrots to the filling for extra texture.
  • Sprinkle grated cheese on top for a golden crust.
  • Finish with fresh coriander before serving.
  • Stir in a pinch of Kashmiri chili or extra chili powder for a deeper, spicier flavor.
  • Finish the filling with a spoon of chili oil or spiced ghee before topping with the mash.
  • Add a small amount of freshly ground black pepper or crushed chili flakes to the mashed potatoes.
  • Serve with a side of Coriander chili chutney for those who like it hotter.

Nutrition

Calories: 214kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 74mg | Potassium: 698mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 371IU | Vitamin C: 31mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 2mg