Dinner

Indian-Spiced Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Name: Indian-Spiced Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 500g pack lean minced lamb; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 tbsp garam masala; 200ml hot stock (lamb, beef or chicken); 200g frozen peas; Salt and pepper, to season; 800g potatoes, diced; 1 tsp turmeric; Small bunch coriander, roughly chopped; Juice of half a lemon, plus wedges to serve

ByEthan Lark January 17, 2026January 17, 2026

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Introduction

Discover a vibrant twist on a classic comfort food with this Indian-spiced shepherd’s pie. Featuring fragrant garam masala and turmeric, this dish combines hearty lamb and creamy potatoes for a satisfying meal full of bold flavors.

A white rectangular baking dish with a partially eaten layered shepherd’s pie, showing three main layers: the top layer is golden-yellow mashed potatoes with a slightly crispy texture and bits of green herbs, the middle layer contains small bright green peas and diced orange carrots, and the bottom layer is a moist mixture of ground beef with a brownish color. A silver spoon rests on the right edge of the dish, and the dish sits on a white marbled surface with a blue and white striped cloth underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

500g pack lean minced lamb
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 tbsp garam masala
200ml hot stock (lamb, beef or chicken)
200g frozen peas
800g potatoes, diced
1 tsp turmeric
Small bunch coriander, roughly chopped
Juice of half a lemon, plus wedges to serve

Instructions

Step 1: In a large non-stick frying pan, cook the minced lamb, chopped onion, and diced carrots over medium heat, stirring often, until the lamb is browned and the vegetables start to soften, about 8 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the garam masala and some seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the hot stock, bring the mixture to a boil, then add the frozen peas. Cook for 2 more minutes until the peas are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
Step 4: While the filling cooks, place the diced potatoes in a large pan of salted water and boil until just tender, about 8 minutes. Drain well, then return to the pan.
Step 5: Gently stir the turmeric and chopped coriander into the potatoes, trying to keep the pieces intact for texture.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas mark 6). Transfer the cooked lamb mixture to a baking dish and spread the turmeric potatoes evenly on top.
Step 7: Squeeze the lemon juice over the potato topping and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the potatoes turn golden and slightly crispy.
Step 8: Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty finish.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free option, avoid adding butter or cream to the potatoes and simply mash with a splash of stock or olive oil.
Try adding a finely chopped chili to the lamb mixture for a spicier kick.
Add a handful of chopped spinach or kale to the filling for extra greens and nutrition.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a naturally sweeter twist and vibrant color.

Storage

Store any leftover shepherd’s pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan) for 20 minutes until heated through. Avoid the microwave to keep the potato topping crisp.

How to Serve

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish with a layered shepherd's pie. The bottom layer is a mix of ground meat, small green peas, and diced orange carrots; the texture looks soft with some moisture. The top layer consists of roughly chopped yellowish mashed potatoes, mixed with herbs, creating a chunky and slightly rough texture. A silver spoon rests on the right side of the dish with some food on it. The dish is placed on a folded blue and white striped cloth over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use beef instead of lamb?

Yes, minced beef works well as a substitute and will create a similar hearty flavor profile with the Indian spices.

Is garam masala very spicy?

Garam masala is a warm, aromatic spice blend rather than a hot chili spice. It adds depth and fragrance without strong heat, but you can adjust with extra chili if you prefer more spice.