Ingredients

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

· 2.5 lbs (about 1.2 kg) Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
· 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole  milk, warmed
· 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted  butter
· 1/2 cup (120 ml)  sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt
· 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated (divided)
· Salt and white pepper to taste

For the Meat Filling:

· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
· 2 large carrots, finely diced
· 2 celery stalks, finely diced
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 1.5 lbs (700 g) ground lamb (for authentic Shepherd’s Pie) or ground beef (for Cottage Pie)
· 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
· 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
· 2 tablespoons tomato paste
· 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
· 1 cup (240 ml) beef or chicken broth
· 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
· 1 cup frozen peas
· Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

The Methods: A Labor of Love

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