Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over high heat.
- Add the beef, season with salt and pepper. Let it sizzle for a minute on each side, then crumble and cook until browned.
- Remove the beef using a slotted spoon, leaving behind about 2-3 tablespoons of fat. Discard any excess.
- Sauté the mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion) for 6–8 minutes until softened.
- Add diced potatoes, minced garlic, and seasonings, stirring for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken stock and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and cover. Simmer for about 10–15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for a minute.
- Slowly whisk in milk until thickened, then add heavy cream off the heat.
- Combine the cream mixture with the soup, along with the cooked beef, peas, and corn.
- Stir until combined and lower the heat. Gradually add cheese, stirring until smooth and let it thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove the bay leaf, add Worcestershire sauce if desired, and serve warm with fresh herbs and buttered bread on the side.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Shepherd’s Pie Soup is all about embracing coziness. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme for a splash of color. Pair it with some crusty buttered bread for dipping and soaking up that rich broth—each bite will keep you coming back for more! It’s also perfect to serve in a bread bowl if you want to elevate the experience.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Shepherd’s Pie Soup fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions; just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove, adding a bit more stock or milk if it has thickened too much.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t rush the browning of the beef; it adds depth of flavor.
- Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little more chicken stock or some water during the cooking process.
- Cheese blend: For a unique twist, try mixing different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
Creative twists
There are numerous ways to personalize this Shepherd’s Pie Soup. For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. You can also swap out the green peas for diced green beans or corn for a different texture. For a smokier flavor, add some cooked bacon or smoked paprika into the mix. This recipe can even be turned vegetarian by using lentils or legumes instead of beef!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and roughly 30 minutes of cooking, making it an easy weeknight solution that can be on the table in less than an hour.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like lentils or mushrooms to suit your dietary needs.
How do I reheat leftovers safely?
The best way to reheat your soup is to warm it slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Make sure it’s heated through to at least 165°F (74°C).
By following this detailed guide, you’ll not only have a delicious bowl of Shepherd’s Pie Soup to enjoy but also the knowledge to make it your own every time!
