When the chill of winter envelops your home, there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Shepherd’s Pie Soup to warm your heart and soothe your soul. This delightful twist on the classic dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and a medley of vegetables, all wrapped in a hearty broth. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or as a meal prep option for your busy week ahead. With a relatively simple preparation process, you’ll find it easy to bring the flavors of this beloved shepherd’s pie into a delightful soup form.
Why We Love This Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe
What’s not to love about Shepherd’s Pie Soup? You get all the comforting goodness of the traditional dish, but in a warm and hearty soup that can be enjoyed by the spoonful. The creamy mashed potato topping transforms into a smooth texture throughout the soup, creating a delightful cohesiveness. It’s rich in flavor yet simple to prepare, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of seasoning with classic ingredients like garlic, onion, and Worcestershire sauce elevates this dish to a whole new level. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables, making it a nutritious option for everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients about Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe
To make the perfect Shepherd’s Pie Soup, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 4 large russet potatoes (approx. 2 lbs., peeled and cubed)
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ¾ teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (divided)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 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
- 1 ½ cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe Directions
Creating Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a straightforward process that will have you savoring its delightful flavors in no time. Start by preparing the ingredients. Shred the cheddar cheese from a block for added freshness and measure out the sour cream and half and half, allowing them to reach room temperature for better blending later.
While you do this, heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, cooking it until browned and crumbled. Ensure it’s fully cooked, then drain any excess fat before removing the beef from the pot and setting it aside.
Next, turn your attention to the potatoes. Place the cubed russet potatoes into a stockpot, covering them with about an inch of water. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of salt and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes or until they’re tender enough to mash. Once done, drain them and mash the potatoes with 1 tablespoon of butter and the room temperature sour cream. Set this aside as you move on.
In the same pot that you cooked the ground beef, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about five minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the freshly minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
To thicken your soup, sprinkle in the flour and continuously stir it for about one minute. Next, gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Use a spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot; this adds depth and flavor to your soup. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and ground sage to the pot. Slowly incorporate the half and half and stir until everything is well combined.
Once the mixture reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer. It’s time to add your creamy mashed potatoes to the broth, blending everything together. For that extra smooth consistency, you can take an immersion blender and blend until creamy, or use a countertop blender in batches.
Now, reintroduce the cooked ground beef and the mixed frozen vegetables back into the pot. Stir everything gently and let it heat through for about five minutes. Finally, remove the soup from the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Be cautious with the temperature as you want the cheese to melt smoothly, avoiding any separation.
How to Serve Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe
Serving your Shepherd’s Pie Soup is just as delightful as preparing it. Begin by taste-testing your soup, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to your preference. When ready, ladle the hot soup into bowls. For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with a bit of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of more shredded cheddar on top.
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light green salad, making for a well-rounded meal. Whether it’s for a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, watching your loved ones enjoy this warm hug in a bowl will certainly bring a smile to your face. Be sure to serve it hot; the comforting aroma and flavors are best enjoyed fresh from the pot.
Expert Tips: Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe
To ensure your Shepherd’s Pie Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips. First, when selecting your potatoes, opt for large russet potatoes as they offer the best creamy texture when mashed. Peel and cube them for even cooking.
When cooking the ground beef, preferably use a lean variety like 85% lean to minimize excess fat without sacrificing flavor. Drain any excess fat thoroughly to maintain a clean soup base.
For the vegetables, incorporate your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Frozen mixed vegetables work well, but fresh vegetables can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cut them into small, even pieces for uniform cooking. If you like your soup spicier, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to give it a kick.
Lastly, be mindful of the temperature when adding the cheese. If the broth is too hot, the cheese can separate, making it grainy instead of creamy. Stir very gently when mixing in the cheese for a smooth finish.
How to Store Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe
Storing your Shepherd’s Pie Soup is easy and convenient. After you’ve enjoyed your warm bowl, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature. Transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
If you wish to store the soup for a longer period, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems thick.
Variation of Shepherd’s Pie Soup Recipe
While the classic version of Shepherd’s Pie Soup is delicious as is, don’t hesitate to explore variations that suit your taste. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based ground meat alternatives. This keeps the heartiness and flavor while making it a vegetarian delight.
- Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different types of cheese. Try adding cream cheese for an additional creamy texture or swapping cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- More Vegetables: Boost the nutrition even further by adding more colorful veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or squash during the cooking process.
- Herbal Infusion: Infuse your soup with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the aroma and flavor.
Feel free to let your creativity guide you. Each variation can offer a unique twist while keeping that comforting essence of Shepherd’s Pie Soup.
FAQ
What is Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a comforting dish that brings the traditional flavors of shepherd’s pie into a hearty soup form. It’s made with ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and mixed vegetables cooked in a rich broth.
Can I make Shepherd’s Pie Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Shepherd’s Pie Soup ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days and can also be frozen for longer storage.
How do I thicken Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
To thicken Shepherd’s Pie Soup, you can add flour while cooking the onions or include mashed potatoes directly in the soup. This helps create a creamy, rich texture.
Is Shepherd’s Pie Soup healthy?
Yes, Shepherd’s Pie Soup can be a healthy meal option, especially if you use lean ground beef and incorporate plenty of vegetables. It also offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
Can I customize the vegetables in Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Absolutely! You can customize the vegetables in Shepherd’s Pie Soup based on your preferences or what’s in season. Carrots, peas, corn, and green beans are all great options to mix in.
With these insights and guidelines, you’re all set to create a delicious Shepherd’s Pie Soup that’s uniquely yours. Happy cooking!
Shepherd's Pie Soup
Ingredients
For the soup base
- 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean) Cooked and drained
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons salted butter Divided
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half and half At room temperature
- ¾ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground sage
- 1½ cups mixed frozen vegetables Such as peas, carrots, and corn
For the mashed potato topping
- 4 large russet potatoes Approximately 2 lbs., peeled and cubed
- ¾ cup sour cream At room temperature
- 1 tablespoon salt Divided
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Shred the cheddar cheese from a block for freshness and measure out the sour cream and half and half. Allow them to reach room temperature.
Cooking the Beef
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
Cooking the Potatoes
- Place the cubed potatoes in a stockpot, cover with water, and add ½ teaspoon of salt. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 10-15 minutes until tender. Drain and mash with 1 tablespoon butter and sour cream.
Making the Soup
- In the same pot, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle flour into the pot, stir for about one minute, then gradually pour in chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the bottom.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and sage. Stir in half and half and bring to a gentle boil.
- Incorporate the mashed potatoes into the soup, blending until creamy using an immersion blender or countertop blender.
- Return the cooked ground beef and mixed vegetables to the pot. Stir gently and heat through for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, being careful to avoid separation.
Serving
- Taste test and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley or extra cheddar.
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