7 What To Have With Shepherd's Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food that combines savory minced meat with vegetables and is topped with creamy mashed potatoes. While it is a hearty dish on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal, providing contrast in texture and flavor. Here are seven perfect side dishes to serve with shepherd’s pie that complement its rich and savory taste.

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans

Green beans are a fantastic side dish for shepherd’s pie because they add a fresh and crisp contrast to the creamy, meaty dish. The addition of garlic butter enhances their natural flavor, making them even more delicious.

To prepare, start by trimming the ends of fresh green beans. Boil them for about three to five minutes until they are tender-crisp. In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Toss the drained green beans in the garlic butter, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes.

This simple yet flavorful side dish brings a hint of freshness to the meal while complementing the depth of flavors in the shepherd’s pie. The crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the softness of the mashed potatoes, making it a well-balanced pairing.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

If you are looking for a side dish that adds both a slightly bitter crunch and a touch of sweetness to your meal, roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are an excellent choice. The caramelized outer leaves and tender centers provide a delightful contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes in shepherd’s pie.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the Brussels sprouts in half and toss them with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. While they are roasting, prepare the balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or brown sugar until it thickens.

Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, drizzle the balsamic glaze over them and toss to coat evenly. The slight sweetness of the glaze balances the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts, creating a side dish that pairs beautifully with the rich and savory shepherd’s pie.

3. Crusty Artisan Bread

A warm slice of crusty artisan bread is a perfect side to soak up all the delicious gravy and sauce from your shepherd’s pie. The crisp exterior and soft, airy interior make it an excellent textural contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes and tender meat filling.

To make homemade artisan bread, you will need flour, water, yeast, and salt. Mix the ingredients to form a dough, then let it rise for several hours to develop a deep, complex flavor. Bake the dough in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

You can also enhance the bread by brushing it with melted butter or olive oil and adding herbs like rosemary or thyme. Serve it warm alongside shepherd’s pie, allowing guests to dip the slices into the rich filling for an extra satisfying bite.

4. Mixed Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A light and refreshing mixed green salad helps balance the richness of shepherd’s pie by adding a crisp, tangy element to the meal. The key to a great salad is fresh ingredients and a well-balanced vinaigrette dressing.

Combine leafy greens such as arugula, romaine, and spinach in a large bowl. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra texture and flavor. For the vinaigrette, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.

Toss the salad with the vinaigrette just before serving to keep the greens crisp. The acidity from the dressing helps cut through the richness of shepherd’s pie, making each bite feel lighter and more refreshing.

5. Glazed Carrots

Sweet and buttery glazed carrots are another fantastic side dish that pairs well with shepherd’s pie. Their natural sweetness contrasts with the savory flavors of the dish, creating a well-rounded meal.

To make glazed carrots, slice fresh carrots into rounds or sticks. Sauté them in butter over medium heat, then add brown sugar or honey for sweetness. Continue to cook until the carrots are tender and the glaze is thickened. For extra depth, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.

The bright color and slight crunch of the carrots make them visually appealing, while their caramelized sweetness enhances the flavors of the main dish without overpowering it.

6. Mushy Peas

A traditional British side dish, mushy peas are a perfect match for shepherd’s pie. Their creamy texture and mild flavor complement the hearty filling and mashed potatoes beautifully.

To make mushy peas, boil fresh or frozen peas until soft. Mash them with a fork or blend them for a smoother consistency. Add a knob of butter, salt, pepper, and a splash of cream or milk for extra creaminess. A hint of fresh mint can also add a refreshing touch.

Mushy peas provide a nostalgic and authentic accompaniment to shepherd’s pie while offering a nutritious and delicious way to round out the meal.

7. Yorkshire Pudding

If you want to add a classic British touch to your shepherd’s pie dinner, Yorkshire pudding is a must-try side dish. These airy, golden-brown pastries have a crisp exterior and a soft, custard-like center, making them perfect for soaking up the rich meat filling.

To prepare Yorkshire pudding, whisk together eggs, flour, milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Preheat a muffin tin with a small amount of hot oil, then pour the batter into each cup. Bake at a high temperature until puffed up and golden brown.

Yorkshire puddings provide a unique combination of crispiness and tenderness that pairs wonderfully with shepherd’s pie. Their light, airy texture ensures that they do not overwhelm the meal but rather enhance its overall enjoyment.

Conclusion

Shepherd’s pie is a delicious and hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Whether you prefer something light and fresh like a green salad or a warm, comforting side like Yorkshire pudding, these seven options ensure that your meal is well-balanced and satisfying. By choosing the right accompaniments, you can elevate the flavors of shepherd’s pie and create a memorable dining experience.