Shepherd’s Pie Soup

This Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a delightful twist on the classic dish, bringing all the familiar flavors into a comforting bowl of soup. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even meal prepping for busy weekdays, this recipe uses traditional Shepherd’s Pie ingredients like ground beef, mashed potatoes, and cheese. The creamy broth makes it an instant hit with both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comforting and Creamy: This soup captures the essence of Shepherd’s Pie with its rich and creamy texture that warms you from the inside out.
  • Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious soup in just about an hour.
  • Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it as a hearty main course or alongside crusty bread for dipping.
  • Great for Meal Prep: This recipe yields 12 cups, making it perfect for freezing or enjoying throughout the week.
  • Family-Friendly Flavors: Combining familiar tastes makes this dish a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some items you’ll need to prepare your Shepherd’s Pie Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large stock pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Potato masher
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Silicone spatula
  • Immersion blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large stock pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
  • Silicone spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of the pot and mixing without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This creamy Shepherd’s Pie Soup is made with traditional Shepherd’s Pie ingredients, including mashed potatoes, cheese, ground beef, and vegetables! You’ll love watching a classic comfort food transform into a delicious soup with creamy broth that your family will love.

For the Soup Base

  • 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

For the Broth

  • 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

For Garnish

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups mixed frozen vegetables
  • Salt/Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup

Step 1: Prep Work

Start by shredding the cheese from a block. Measure out the sour cream and half-and-half. Let these ingredients sit at room temperature while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large stock pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until it’s cooked through. Drain any excess grease before removing it from the pot. Set aside.

Step 3: Boil & Mash Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into thirds. Place them in the stock pot, covering them with about an inch of water. Add salt and boil gently for 10-15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and gently mash with sour cream and 1 tablespoon of butter. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Broth

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in your stock pot. Add diced onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Thicken with Flour

Whisk in flour using a silicone spatula; stir continuously for one full minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.

Step 6: Add Chicken Broth

Gradually add chicken broth in splashes while stirring continuously. Use your spatula to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot to enhance flavor.

Step 7: Seasoning Time

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and sage. Slowly mix in half-and-half; bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer.

Step 8: Combine Potatoes with Broth

Fold in mashed potatoes until fully mixed into the broth. For an ultra-creamy texture, use an immersion blender or transfer batches to a regular blender.

Step 9: Add Beef & Vegetables

Incorporate cooked ground beef along with frozen vegetables into your soup mixture. Heat through for about five minutes.

Step 10: Cheese It Up

Remove from heat and gradually sprinkle shredded cheese into the soup while stirring until melted smoothly throughout.

Step 11: Final Seasoning & Serve

Taste your soup, adjusting salt or pepper as needed before serving hot! Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness!

How to Serve Shepherd’s Pie Soup

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance the experience and make your meal even more delightful.

With Crusty Bread

  • Rustic Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
  • Garlic Bread: Pair with buttery garlic bread for a savory complement.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

  • Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
  • Thyme Leaves: Add thyme leaves for an aromatic touch that enhances flavor.

Accompanied by Cheese

  • Extra Cheddar: Offer grated cheddar on the side to sprinkle over individual bowls.
  • Parmesan Crisps: Serve homemade parmesan crisps as a crunchy contrast.

With a Side Salad

  • Simple Green Salad: A basic salad with lettuce, cucumber, and vinaigrette balances the richness.
  • Caesar Salad: The creamy caesar dressing pairs wonderfully with the soup’s flavors.

How to Perfect Shepherd’s Pie Soup

To create the best Shepherd’s Pie Soup, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will significantly enhance the taste.
  • Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or half-and-half to achieve your desired creaminess.
  • Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper gradually ensures balanced seasoning throughout.
  • Blend for Creaminess: Use an immersion blender to achieve a smooth, creamy texture if desired.
  • Let it Sit: Allowing the soup to rest before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.
  • Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Shepherd’s Pie Soup

For a complete meal, consider pairing your Shepherd’s Pie Soup with these delicious side dishes. They complement the soup perfectly and elevate your dining experience.

  1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a perfect duo with the soup.
  2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that contrasts well.
  3. Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky biscuits loaded with cheese are ideal for dipping into the rich broth.
  4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty side that complements the soup’s flavors.
  5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw balances the warmth of the soup, adding crunch and acidity.
  6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are great for soaking up every last bit of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shepherd’s Pie Soup, a few common mistakes can impact the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

  • Not seasoning properly: Failing to season your soup can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.

  • Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook the vegetables too long, they can become mushy. Aim for a tender but still slightly crisp texture to maintain some bite in your soup.

  • Skipping the blending step: Some may skip blending the potatoes into the soup for creaminess. Blending is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture that mimics traditional Shepherd’s Pie.

  • Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold dairy like sour cream or half and half can cause curdling. Allow these ingredients to reach room temperature before adding them to your pot.

  • Not allowing time for flavors to develop: Rushing through cooking can prevent ingredients from fully infusing their flavors into the broth. Letting it simmer helps build a deeper taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Shepherd’s Pie Soup can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Shepherd’s Pie Soup

  • Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.
  • Freeze Shepherd’s Pie Soup for up to 3 months.
  • Label with the date so you know how long it’s been stored.

Reheating Shepherd’s Pie Soup

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.

  • Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

  • Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shepherd’s Pie Soup?

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a comforting dish that combines all the classic elements of Shepherd’s Pie, including ground beef, mashed potatoes, and vegetables, in a delicious creamy soup form.

Can I make Shepherd’s Pie Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

How do I customize my Shepherd’s Pie Soup?

You can customize your soup by adding different vegetables like peas or corn or using ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.

What sides go well with Shepherd’s Pie Soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, sandwiches, or a fresh salad. The options are endless!

Is Shepherd’s Pie Soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when thickening the broth.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Shepherd’s Pie Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough to accommodate various tastes and dietary needs. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices. Try this delightful twist on a classic dish; your family will surely love every spoonful!

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Shepherd's Pie Soup

Shepherd’s Pie Soup


  • Author: Sofia
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Indulge in the warmth of Shepherd’s Pie Soup, a delightful and creamy twist on the beloved classic. This comforting dish combines all the cherished flavors of traditional Shepherd’s Pie—ground beef, mashed potatoes, and vegetables—into a rich and hearty soup. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please both kids and adults alike. With just one pot needed, you can have this soul-soothing soup ready in about an hour. Serve it as a standalone meal or alongside crusty bread for dipping, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • ¾ cup sour cream
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Various seasonings (salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning)

Instructions

  1. Cook ground beef in a large stock pot over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
  2. Boil diced potatoes in salted water until tender; mash with sour cream and set aside.
  3. Sauté onions and garlic in butter, then whisk in flour to create a roux.
  4. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring; bring to a simmer.
  5. Mix in seasonings and half-and-half; fold in mashed potatoes.
  6. Add cooked beef and frozen vegetables; heat through.
  7. Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 408
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 749mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 19g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender or regular blender for the mashed potato mixture. Customize with extra veggies or try ground turkey for a lighter option.

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