Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting, hearty dish that is perfect for cozy family dinners, gatherings, or a satisfying meal after a long day. With its savory filling of seasoned ground meat (traditionally lamb, though beef is often used), vegetables, and a rich mashed potato topping, Shepherd’s Pie is delicious on its own. However, like any well-rounded meal, it’s even better when paired with complementary sides and drinks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what to serve with Shepherd’s Pie to elevate the meal, making it even more enjoyable. Whether you’re wondering what to serve with Shepherd’s Pie or you’re curious about the famous dish’s variations (like “Does Cracker Barrel have Shepherd’s Pie?”), we have you covered!
What is Shepherd’s Pie?
Before diving into the ideal sides, let’s take a brief moment to explore what makes Shepherd’s Pie such a beloved dish. Shepherd’s Pie is traditionally made with lamb (hence the name), though in many regions, it is made with ground beef, leading some to call it Cottage Pie. The dish consists of a savory meat filling, usually accompanied by peas, carrots, and sometimes onions, all topped with a generous layer of mashed potatoes that are baked until golden and crispy.
The dish itself is incredibly satisfying, with its combination of flavors and textures. However, it can be even better when paired with sides and drinks that complement its richness.
1. Classic Vegetables to Pair with Shepherd’s Pie
Vegetables are an excellent option to balance the richness of Shepherd’s Pie. A vegetable side dish can add freshness and lightness to the meal. Here are some great vegetable options to serve alongside Shepherd’s Pie:
Green Beans Almondine
Green beans almondine is a classic side dish that adds both color and crunch to your plate. The lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds bring a fresh, nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of Shepherd’s Pie. You can also add a bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are another vegetable side that pairs wonderfully with Shepherd’s Pie. The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts is balanced by the caramelization that comes from roasting them. The crispy outer leaves and tender interior make them a perfect match for the creamy mashed potatoes and savory filling of Shepherd’s Pie.
Steamed Broccoli
A simple yet nutritious side, steamed broccoli offers a mild flavor and a vibrant green color that enhances the visual appeal of your meal. The mild bitterness of broccoli cuts through the rich meat filling of the Shepherd’s Pie, while its slight crunch adds texture to the meal.
2. Light and Refreshing Salads
A light, refreshing salad can be a great way to balance the heavy and comforting nature of Shepherd’s Pie. Here are a couple of salad ideas to serve alongside:
Simple Mixed Greens Salad
A basic mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a fantastic choice. The crisp lettuce, along with the tangy dressing, will help cut through the richness of the Shepherd’s Pie. You can add additional ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions for extra flavor and texture.
Caesar Salad
If you’re looking for something with a bit more depth, a Caesar salad makes a great pairing. The creamy, tangy dressing and crunchy croutons offer a delightful contrast to the smooth mashed potatoes and savory meat of the Shepherd’s Pie. Additionally, the Parmesan cheese adds a bit of sharpness that complements the flavors of the main dish.
3. Bread and Carbs to Complement Shepherd’s Pie
While Shepherd’s Pie already features mashed potatoes as the topping, pairing it with additional bread or carbs can turn it into a more filling meal. Here are some delicious carb-based options to serve with Shepherd’s Pie:
Crusty Bread
A slice of warm, crusty bread is a comforting and easy accompaniment. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce or gravy from your Shepherd’s Pie. You can opt for a French baguette, sourdough, or even focaccia for a variety of textures and flavors.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is another excellent bread choice to serve with Shepherd’s Pie. The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the hearty filling of the pie. The crunchy crust also offers a satisfying contrast to the soft mashed potatoes.
Buttery Dinner Rolls
For those who prefer something softer, warm, buttery dinner rolls can be a perfect choice. These rolls are fluffy and delicious and provide a simple yet indulgent side to the dish. They’re also great for soaking up any savory sauce that might remain from the Shepherd’s Pie.
4. Drink Pairings for Shepherd’s Pie
Just as with food, beverages can enhance the overall experience of your meal. Here are some drink options that pair well with Shepherd’s Pie:
Red Wine
A glass of red wine is a classic beverage pairing for Shepherd’s Pie. Opt for a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or a Shiraz. The wine’s tannins and acidity complement the rich flavors of the meat and mashed potatoes, enhancing the dish’s savory profile.
Pale Ale or IPA
If you prefer beer, a pale ale or IPA works wonderfully with Shepherd’s Pie. The slight bitterness of the IPA cuts through the richness of the dish, while the hoppy flavors bring out the umami notes of the meat filling. A lighter pale ale is another great option for a refreshing balance.
Apple Cider
For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving apple cider with your Shepherd’s Pie. The crisp and slightly tart flavor of apple cider contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the dish, offering a refreshing complement without overpowering the meal.
5. Does Cracker Barrel Have Shepherd’s Pie?
If you’re a fan of Cracker Barrel and are wondering, “Does Cracker Barrel have Shepherd’s Pie?”—the answer is yes! Cracker Barrel does offer Shepherd’s Pie on its menu. It’s made with a hearty beef filling topped with mashed potatoes, baked to perfection. The dish is a popular choice for those seeking a comforting and filling meal at the restaurant. If you’re not sure what to serve with Shepherd’s Pie at Cracker Barrel, many guests enjoy pairing it with the restaurant’s famous sides, such as country-style green beans, corn muffins, and hashbrowns.
6. Additional Sides and Ideas to Serve with Shepherd’s Pie
Aside from the classic vegetable sides and salads, there are a few more unique ideas to consider when planning your meal with Shepherd’s Pie:
Coleslaw
A crunchy, tangy coleslaw can add a nice contrast to the soft texture of Shepherd’s Pie. The creamy dressing and the slight crunch from the cabbage offer a satisfying balance to the richness of the pie.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
If you’re looking for a twist on the classic mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes can be an excellent alternative. Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory flavors of the Shepherd’s Pie, adding an interesting contrast in taste.
Gravy or Sauce
If you enjoy extra sauce with your Shepherd’s Pie, consider serving it with a side of gravy. You can make a simple brown gravy or even a rich onion gravy to pour over the top, further enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Conclusion: What to Serve Shepherd’s Pie With
Shepherd’s Pie is a versatile dish that can be complemented by a variety of sides, drinks, and additional accompaniments. Whether you’re opting for vegetables like green beans or Brussels sprouts, pairing it with a fresh salad, or enjoying it with crusty bread or garlic bread, there are endless ways to elevate your Shepherd’s Pie meal.
By choosing the right sides, you can balance the richness of the pie and enhance the overall dining experience. From classic vegetable sides to refreshing salads and hearty carbs, the options are plentiful. And don’t forget the drinks—red wine, pale ale, or apple cider all pair beautifully with the flavors of Shepherd’s Pie.
Now that you know what to serve with Shepherd’s Pie, your next meal will be a hit!
