Definition

Noun: A savory dish consisting of a layer of cooked minced meat (traditionally lamb or mutton) covered with a layer of mashed potatoes, which is then baked in an oven until the top is browned.

Usage

"Shepherd's pie" is used as a countable noun to refer to the dish itself, either as a whole or a portion of it. It is a compound noun where "shepherd's" acts as a possessive modifier describing the type of "pie," though it is not a pastry pie in the traditional sense.

Examples

• For dinner, she made a delicious shepherd's pie with ground lamb and peas.
• This pub serves the best shepherd's pie in town.
• Would you like a second helping of shepherd's pie?
• We had leftover shepherd's pie for lunch.

Advanced Usage

• The term is sometimes used generically to describe similar dishes made with other meats, such as beef. However, purists argue that a version made with beef should correctly be called "cottage pie."

Variants and Related Words

• Cottage Pie (n.): A very similar dish historically made with beef. In modern usage, "shepherd's pie" and "cottage pie" are often used interchangeably, though the traditional meat distinction remains.
• Fish Pie (n.): A similar baked dish with a mashed potato topping, but using fish as the main ingredient.
• Pâté Chinois (n.): A Canadian dish similar to shepherd's pie, typically made with layers of ground beef, canned corn, and mashed potatoes.

Synonyms

• Meat Pie (n.): A broader term for any pie with a meat filling, which could include a pastry crust.
• Mince Pie (n.): In some contexts, this can refer to a savory pie containing minced meat, but it more commonly refers to a sweet pie with mincemeat (dried fruits).

Related Phrases & Idioms

• (As) comforting as shepherd's pie: Used to describe something that provides warmth, satisfaction, and nostalgic comfort, much like the traditional dish.
  • After a long, cold day, a hot bath is as comforting as shepherd's pie.

Noun

1. pie of hash covered with mashed potatoes and browned in the oven