Shepherd's Pie: A Comfort Food with a Heartwarming History

Cooking has always been a way for me to feed both body and soul. It’s about connecting with others through food and sharing something meaningful, just as I set out to do with Feed Your Soul. While my company specializes in sweet treats, my passion for cooking extends to all kinds of comforting, soul-nourishing dishes—and shepherd’s pie is one of my favorites.

This classic dish, originating from humble beginnings in the British Isles, is a testament to the power of simplicity. Shepherd’s pie was born out of necessity, a way for families to make the most of leftover meat and potatoes. Over time, it evolved into a beloved comfort food, cherished for its hearty layers of minced meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes.

As I reflect on its history, I’m reminded of why cooking—and giving back—matters so much to me. Like shepherd’s pie, the foundation of Feed Your Soul rests on taking simple, high-quality ingredients and turning them into something that brings people together and spreads happiness. Whether it’s a warm meal shared at the dinner table or a box of cookies gifted to brighten someone’s day, food has an incredible ability to connect us.

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Shepherd’s pie also resonates with the values that inspired me to start my company. It’s a dish that embodies resourcefulness, creativity, and care. It’s about making the most of what you have and sharing it with others, a philosophy that aligns perfectly with our mission to give back. Every purchase from Feed Your Soul helps provide meals for those in need through Feeding America and the Coalition for the Homeless, ensuring that no ingredient—or opportunity to make a difference—goes to waste.

The beauty of shepherd’s pie is its versatility. Traditional recipes use lamb (hence the name), but variations abound—from beef to vegetarian versions featuring lentils or mushrooms. It’s a reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated; it just needs to be made with love and intention. Much like baking cookies, creating a shepherd’s pie is a process that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and pour your heart into the dish.

As we continue to bake integrity into everything we do at Feed Your Soul, I’m inspired by dishes like shepherd’s pie that carry stories of resilience and generosity. They remind me of the importance of feeding not just our bodies but also our souls, one meal (or cookie!) at a time. So whether you’re layering mashed potatoes over savory filling or sharing a box of cookies with someone you care about, know that you’re part of a tradition of love, connection, and giving back.

A Simple Shepherd’s Pie Recipe to Share

If you’re feeling inspired, why not try making shepherd’s pie at home? Here’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or even donating to a local food drive:

Ingredients:

Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed (yukon gold or russet)
  
  
• 2-3 garlic cloves, peeled 
  
  
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  
  
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
  
• coarse salt and black pepper to taste 

Meat:

• 2 tablespoons oil
  
  
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
  
  
• 2 carrots, diced
  
  
• 1/2 cup peas fresh or frozen
  
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
  
• 1 pound ground meat
  
  
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  
  
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  
  
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
  
  
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
  
  
• 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  
  
• fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Mashed Potatoes
   
   

   Place the potatoes and garlic in a large pot and cover with cold water and some salt, bring to a boil. Simmer over medium heat until tender, about 25 minutes. Drain all excess water.

   In a large saucepan, melt the butter and cream. Pour the warm butter/cream mixture over your warm potatoes. Mash until light and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Meat
   
   

   Place oil in a saute pan, cook ground meat and set aside. In a large pan over medium heat (you can use the pan from the meat), add oil, saute onion and carrots. Add minced garlic and stir. Add the cooked meat, salt and pepper.

   Add the Worcestershire, tomato paste, beef broth and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until the sauce is thickened slightly. Add the peas into the meat mixture 

3. Assemble
   
   Spread the meat evenly into an 8x12” oven-safe casserole dish. Top with mashed potatoes (you can use store-bought if you don’t have time to make the potatoes)
   
   
4. Bake
   
   at 400F degrees for 25 minutes or just until the potatoes begin to brown and bubble. Serve and Enjoy!

Whether you’re cooking shepherd’s pie or sharing sweet treats, remember that the best meals are those made with a generous spirit. Here’s to feeding your soul and the souls of those around you!