The Ultimate Gluten-Free Shepherds Pie Recipe
A basic go-to meal any day of the week. This gluten-free Shepherds Pie recipe is cheap and easy to make and it freezes well.
It is one of the first things I learned to cook and it’s still a favourite today.
You can add lots of different vegetables to it, and use soya and lentils if you want to make it meat-free.
It is also a good recipe to hide vegetables in, as you can whisk the vegetables with the tomatoes and add them to the meat.
Table of Contents
What you’ll love about this recipe
- Customizable: Want to sneak in extra veggies? Go for it! Feeling vegetarian? No problem!
- Budget-Friendly: Who says amazing meals have to break the bank? This recipe is wallet-friendly and taste bud-approved!
- Meal Prep: Batch cook and freeze – your future self will thank you on those busy weeknights!
- Sneaky Veggie Win: Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist this veggie-packed comfort food.
- Dietary Restriction? No Worries!: Everyone gets to enjoy this classic dish, gluten-free or not!
Ingredients
- 500g of grass-fed lamb
- 5 potatoes
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3 carrots
- 1 red pepper
- 2 celery sticks
- A handful of spinach
- 400g can of tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon Herbs
- 1 tablespoon Gluten-free Worcester sauce
- Gluten-free vegetable stock cube
- A pinch of salt & pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200c (Gas 6).
- Peel and chop the potatoes and boil them in a pan of water for 25-30 minutes, until they are soft.
- Finely chop the garlic and onion and fry with a little rapeseed oil, this should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the lamb next and fry until cooked, should take about 5-8 minutes.
- Remove the lamb from the pan and put into an ovenproof dish.
- Chop the carrot, celery and red pepper into small pieces and add to the lamb. You do not need to fry them.
- Add the rest of the ingredients, tomatoes, stock cube, herbs, tomato puree, spinach and gluten-free Worcester sauce if using, salt & pepper.
- You can add some cold water if the mixture needs it.
- Mash the potatoes with a knob of butter and spread over the top pressing down firmly with a fork.
- Add grated cheese to the top and put it into the oven.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes until piping hot and the cheese has melted and browned.
What to serve with gluten-free shepherd’s pie
Shepherd’s pie pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that can complement its rich, hearty flavour.
- A crisp green salad with a zesty gluten-free salad dressing
- Warm gluten-free garlic bread for mopping up the sauce
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- A glass of your favourite red wine (make sure it’s gluten-free!)
The key is to choose sides that provide a fresh, light contrast to the rich and creamy shepherd’s pie. Vegetables, salads, and light bread work best to balance the main dish’s intense flavours.
Gluten-free Shepard’s Pie Recipe
Are you ready to try my gluten-free Shepherds pie recipe? Then let’s get started:
Gluten-Free Shepherds Pie Recipe
Equipment
- Chopping Board
- Sharp Knife
- Table Spoon
- Measuring Jug
- Frying pan
- Potato Masher
- Oven Proof Dish
Ingredients
- 500 g Grass feed minced lamb (serves 4)
- 5 Large potatoes
- 1 Onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic finely chopped
- 3 Carrots peeled and chopped into batons
- 1 Red pepper
- 2 Sticks celery
- 1 Handful spinach
- 400 g Tin tomatoes
- Lamb or Vegetable stock cube
- 1 tbsp Herbs fresh or dried
- 1 tbsp Tomato puree
- Salt and pepper
- A knob of butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200℃ (Gas 6).
- Peel and chop the potatoes into quarters and put them into a pot to boil. Boil for around 20-30 minutes until soft enough to mash.
- Finely chop the onion and the garlic and fry in a little rapeseed oil for about 5 minutes.
- Add the mince and fry until brown.
- Remove, mince, onion, and garlic from the frying pan and place into an oven-proof dish.
- Chop and baton the carrots, and slice the celery and red pepper. Add them to the mince, you don't need to fry them.
- Add the rest of the ingredients, tin of tomatoes, stock cube, herbs, tomato puree, and gluten-free Worcester sauce (if using).
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
- You can add (300ml) or 1/2 pint of water if the mixture looks a little dry.
- Mash your warm potatoes, I like to use a knob of butter and a splash of milk (this is optional).
- Add the mash to the top of your mince and vegetables and firm down with a fork. You can add herbs and grated cheese if you wish or leave it plain.
- Now pop into the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is browned. Serve with a little beef gravy. Heaven.
Nutrition
If you enjoy my gluten-free shepherd’s pie, then check out these 👇
- Gluten-free chilli recipe
- Gluten-free cottage pie recipe
- Gluten-free potato cake recipe
Gluten-Free Shepherds Pie tips
Here are some tips to help you make the most out of this recipe:
Avoid Cross-Contamination
If you’re preparing the Shephard’s Pie in a kitchen that is not entirely gluten-free, take precautions to avoid cross-contamination.
Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and cooking surfaces to prevent gluten from coming into contact with the ingredients.
Batch cooking
This recipe is great to have as a backup in the freezer for when you are short on time. So make sure you make extra of your yummy shepherd’s pie.
Also, look out for the ingredients to be on offer in the supermarket and save a few pennies.
Key Ingredients
- Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the filling.
- Choose certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce (like Lea & Perrins).
- Always verify that your beef or chicken broth is gluten-free.
Preparation Tips
- Sauté onions first to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Use a mix of vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn.
- Consider adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley for extra flavour.
Meat and Filling Options
- You can use ground beef, lamb, chicken, or turkey
- Brown the meat thoroughly before adding other ingredients
- Add tomato paste for depth of flavour.
Potato Topping Suggestions
- Mash potatoes with butter and milk for a creamy texture.
- Consider adding garlic powder or cheese for extra flavour.
- Brush the potato topping with melted butter for a golden brown finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze gluten-free shepherd’s pie?
Yes, you can freeze gluten-free shepherd’s pie! Here are the key details for freezing:
Freezing Instructions
Cool the shepherd’s pie completely before freezing.
You can freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
Consider freezing in individual portions for easier reheating.
Thawing and Reheating
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 20-30 minutes.
Ensure it’s heated through until piping hot.
Storage Tips
Use an airtight container or freezer-safe dish.
Label with the date of freezing.
For best quality, consume within 2-3 months.
Pro tip: If you plan to freeze, you can prepare the beef mixture and potato topping separately up to 2 days in advance, but assemble and bake just before freezing for optimal texture.
Is Shepard’s pie suitable for batch cooking?
Yes, Shepherd’s Pie is excellent for batch cooking! Here are the key details:
Batch Cooking Benefits
Perfect for preparing meals in advance
Can be frozen for up to one month
Provides a balanced meal with meat, vegetables, and potatoes.
Preparation Tips
Prepare meat mixture and mashed potato topping separately.
Can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated.
Ideal for making multiple portions at once.
Shepherds pie is a versatile, hearty dish that’s perfect for batch cooking and meal prepping.
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Becky Terrell ✍️
Hi, I am Becky. I am a passionate recipe maker and having been a coeliac (celiac) for 30+ years I focus on gluten-free recipes. My blog is my online cookbook of gluten-free tasty recipes. You can follow me on X: @beckygwg
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Comments
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It’s hard to beat this classic—so hearty and filling, and the mash topping turned out super creamy.