Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet

Name: Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tbsp butter; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love whipping up this Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet whenever I want a comforting yet exciting meal. The flavorful mix of lamb, vegetables, and spices transports me straight to the Mediterranean coast. Topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare in just one skillet. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that impresses family and friends alike, and the leftovers taste even better!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:54:27.723Z

When I first tried making a shepherd's pie with a Mediterranean twist, I was blown away by how seamlessly the flavors came together. The addition of spices like cumin and paprika creates a depth of flavor that elevates the traditional dish. I found that using fresh herbs, specifically parsley and mint, enhances the bright flavors and makes it even more satisfying.

One key tip I discovered is to allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly before spreading them over the meat mixture. This helps in achieving a beautiful golden crust when baked, ensuring every bite is as tasty as the last!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Robust flavors from Mediterranean spices and fresh herbs
Creamy mashed potato topping that contrasts with a savory base
Easy one-skillet dish makes cleanup a breeze

The Role of Key Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. The ground lamb is not only rich and flavorful but also provides a perfect base for the aromatic spices. Using fresh herbs and vegetables, like garlic and zucchini, adds brightness and contrast to the savory meat. The diced tomatoes help balance the richness of the lamb with their acidity, making every bite exciting.

Opting for frozen peas is a great way to introduce a pop of color and sweetness without worrying about overcooking fresh ones. When added at the end of cooking, they just need to heat through, keeping their vibrant color and slight crunch intact. This attention to ingredient quality elevates the Shepherd's Pie Skillet, ensuring it's both healthy and flavorful.

Techniques for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect mashed potato topping is all about technique. Boiling the cubed potatoes until they are fork-tender ensures they’ll mash smoothly without lumps. Keeping the skins on could also add a rustic touch if you prefer a heartier texture. When mashing, I recommend using a potato ricer for an ultra-smooth finish, or a hand masher for a bit more texture. Adding warm milk and melted butter instead of cold ingredients helps the potatoes absorb the moisture better, leading to a creamy consistency.

Seasoning is key! Taste as you go to ensure the salt enhances the flavors without overwhelming them. If you find the potatoes too thick, you can mix in a bit more milk to reach your desired creaminess. Remember that the mashed potatoes will also cook a bit further in the oven, so avoid over-seasoning at this stage.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a mouthwatering Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet!

For the Skillet

1 lb ground lamb
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup frozen peas
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
4 tbsp butter
Salt to taste

With all your ingredients prepped, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet.

Cook the Lamb and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in ground lamb, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Add diced carrot, bell pepper, zucchini, tomatoes, frozen peas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the meat mixture is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with milk and butter until creamy. Season with salt to taste.

Assemble and Bake

Spread the lamb mixture evenly in the skillet and then top it with the mashed potatoes. Use a fork to create texture on the potato layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy this delightful Mediterranean dish!

Now you can sit back and enjoy your homemade meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider topping the mashed potatoes with grated cheese before baking for a cheesy crust. You can also substitute ground lamb with ground beef or turkey for a lighter version.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Shepherd's Pie Skillet packs wonderfully for leftovers. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover it with foil to prevent the mashed potatoes from drying out, and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, just be sure to monitor closely to avoid overheating.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the reheating instructions. If you're in a rush, you can also reheat directly from frozen, but it will take longer, around 45-60 minutes in the oven.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with the vegetable mix in this recipe. You can easily substitute the zucchini with mushrooms or spinach, depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Additionally, if ground lamb isn't your preference, ground beef or turkey can work as substitutes, although they will result in different flavor profiles. Adjust the spices if needed to enhance this variation.

For a lower-carb option, consider using cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes. Simply steam cauliflower florets until tender, then blend them with butter, cream, and seasoning until smooth. This swap not only adds a new twist to the dish but also caters to those looking for a lighter meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the ground lamb?

Yes, you can use ground beef or turkey if you prefer.

→ What herbs pair well with this dish?

Fresh parsley and mint complement the flavors beautifully.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

→ Is it okay to use frozen vegetables in the filling?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well and can save you prep time.