Air Fryer Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless comfort food from the UK, made traditionally with ground lamb or beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes baked on top. Making it in the air fryer gives it a beautifully golden, crispy potato crust without heating the whole oven — perfect for quick weeknight dinners!

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp flour (to thicken)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup milk (adjust for creaminess)
• Salt to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until soft (about 12–15 minutes).
2. Drain, then mash with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
3. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and flour; mix well.
5. Pour in beef broth and simmer until thickened.
6. Add frozen vegetables and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Spoon the meat mixture into a heatproof air fryer-safe dish or ramekins.
2. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
3. (Optional) Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for extra crispiness.

Step 4: Air Fry

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the dish in the basket and cook for 12–15 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
3. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

What to Serve With

• A light green salad or steamed broccoli for balance.
• A drizzle of gravy or hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Warm crusty bread to soak up the rich filling.

Tips

• Use ground lamb for a traditional Shepherd’s Pie, or ground beef for Cottage Pie.
• For extra creaminess, mix a spoonful of sour cream into the mashed potatoes.
• You can prepare it ahead and air fry when ready to serve.