This creamy Shepherd’s Pie Soup combines the comforting flavors of traditional Shepherd’s Pie into a warm and hearty bowl. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this soup brings together rich beef, creamy potatoes, and a medley of vegetables. You’ll love how easy it is to make while delivering incredible flavor that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: Enjoy the familiar taste of Shepherd’s Pie in soup form, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your meal.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields 12 cups, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prep for the week.
- Creamy Texture: The combination of mashed potatoes and cheese creates a rich and creamy broth that’s simply irresistible.
Tools and Preparation
For this recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Shepherd’s Pie Soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large stock pot
- Silicone spatula
- Potato masher or immersion blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large stock pot: Essential for cooking everything together efficiently while providing enough space for all ingredients.
- Silicone spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the pot and mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Potato masher or immersion blender: Helps achieve that creamy texture by mashing or blending the potatoes seamlessly into the broth.
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 Base
- 4 large russet potatoes (equal to 2 lbs.)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup sour cream
For the Soup
- 1 lb. Ground Beef (85% lean)
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (divided)
- ¼ cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half and half
For Flavoring
- 3/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground sage
For Finishing Touches
- 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 cheese from a block and measuring out the sour cream and half-and-half. Allow them to sit at room temperature while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large stock pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease before removing it from the pot. Set aside.
Step 3: Boil & Mash Potatoes
Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into thirds. Place them in a stock pot covered with water by about an inch. Add salt and boil gently for 10-15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes, then mash them gently with sour cream and one tablespoon of butter. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Broth
Melt two tablespoons of butter in the same pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, cooking until softened (about five minutes). Stir in minced garlic for another minute before proceeding.
Step 5: Whisk in Flour
Sprinkle flour into the pot while stirring continuously with a silicone spatula. This helps eliminate any raw flour taste; cook for about one minute.
Step 6: Add Chicken Broth
Gradually add chicken broth in splashes while stirring continuously to combine. Use your spatula to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
Step 7: Season It Up
Mix in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and sage. Slowly incorporate half-and-half while bringing everything to a gentle boil before reducing to simmer.
Step 8: Combine Potatoes
Stir in mashed potatoes until well combined with the broth. For an ultra-creamy texture, use an immersion blender or transfer portions to a blender until smooth.
Step 9: Add Beef & Vegetables
Return cooked ground beef along with frozen mixed vegetables to the pot. Allow everything to heat through for about five minutes on low heat.
Step 10: Finish with Cheese
Remove from heat and gradually sprinkle shredded cheese into the soup while stirring until melted smoothly throughout. Ensure your base isn’t too hot to avoid clumping.
Step 11: Season & Serve
Taste your soup one last time before serving! Adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as desired before ladling into bowls. Enjoy!
Now you’re ready to savor every spoonful of this delightful Shepherd’s Pie Soup!
How to Serve Shepherd’s Pie Soup
Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple meal or something a bit more elaborate, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the creamy soup perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and flavor contrast.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the soup.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and brightness.
- Chives: Chopped chives give a mild onion flavor that enhances the dish.
- Thyme Leaves: Fresh thyme offers an earthy aroma that pairs well with the soup.
Served with Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the soup.
- Mixed Green Salad: Light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of Shepherd’s Pie Soup.
How to Perfect Shepherd’s Pie Soup
To achieve the best flavors and textures in your Shepherd’s Pie Soup, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall taste of your soup.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; this allows you to find the perfect balance of flavors without overwhelming your dish.
- Control Thickness: If your soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or half-and-half until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Blend for Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup before adding the beef and vegetables.
- Cool Before Storing: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Shepherd’s Pie Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Shepherd’s Pie Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that adds gooey goodness alongside the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies provide a healthy and colorful addition to your meal.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that complements the smoothness of the soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad brings freshness and acidity, balancing out richer elements in the soup.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served with crackers makes for an indulgent yet delightful side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Shepherd’s Pie Soup, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Boiling the potatoes for too long can make them mushy. Aim for fork-tender potatoes; check them around 10-15 minutes.
- Skipping the Beef Draining Step: Not draining the grease from the beef can lead to a greasy soup. Always drain excess fat for a cleaner flavor.
- Not Cooking the Flour Long Enough: If you don’t cook the flour thoroughly, it will taste raw in your soup. Stir for at least one minute until it turns golden.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: Adding cheese while the soup is too hot can result in clumpy cheese rather than a smooth mix. Allow the soup to cool slightly before adding cheese.
- Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning may leave your soup bland. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Shepherd’s Pie Soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Shepherd’s Pie Soup
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Shepherd’s Pie Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Shepherd’s Pie Soup:
What is Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a creamy and hearty dish inspired by traditional Shepherd’s Pie, featuring ground beef, vegetables, and a rich broth.
Can I use other meats in Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors or textures.
How do I make Shepherd’s Pie Soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I customize the vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out mixed frozen vegetables with your favorites like peas, corn, or green beans.
Can I make Shepherd’s Pie Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup is great for meal prep. Just store it properly in the fridge or freezer as outlined above.
Final Thoughts
Shepherd’s Pie Soup brings together all the comforting flavors of classic Shepherd’s Pie into a warm bowl of goodness. It’s versatile; feel free to customize it with different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Shepherd’s Pie Soup
Indulge in a warm bowl of creamy Shepherd’s Pie Soup, where the heartiness of traditional Shepherd’s Pie meets the comfort of a soup. This delightful dish features rich ground beef simmered with a medley of vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy broth that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Topped with cheesy goodness and served alongside crusty bread, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for busy weeks. Easy to customize, this recipe invites you to add your favorite veggies or spices, making it a versatile choice for any palate. Enjoy the taste of home-cooked comfort with every spoonful!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 3/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground sage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups mixed frozen vegetables
- Salt/Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and cut potatoes into thirds. Boil in salted water until fork-tender (10-15 minutes). Drain and mash with sour cream and butter.
- In a large stock pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess grease.
- Melt butter and sauté onions until softened; add garlic for one more minute.
- Whisk in flour, cook for one minute, then gradually add chicken broth while stirring.
- Stir in seasonings and half-and-half; bring to a gentle boil then reduce to simmer.
- Mix in mashed potatoes until combined; blend for creaminess if desired.
- Return beef and vegetables, heat through for five minutes.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted; adjust seasoning before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For extra creaminess, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup before adding back the beef and vegetables. Feel free to swap out mixed frozen vegetables with seasonal favorites like peas or green beans for added freshness.