Spelt Shepherd’s Pie

Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Intermediate
Spelt Shepherd’s Pie
Spelt Shepherd’s Pie

A Classic, Rebalanced

Shepherd’s Pie is the kind of meal that warms you right through. This version keeps the same savoury, satisfying base but swaps the usual mash topping with a layer of buttery spelt for a grainy, high-fibre update.

Why You’ll Love This

It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and great for batch cooking. The spelt adds a nutty flavour and chewy bite, balancing the rich lamb and veg base. It’s ideal for cold evenings and makes excellent leftovers.

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 45 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins
Estimated Cost: £ 8 Calories: 495 kcal
Best Season: Winter, Fall

Description

A comforting shepherd’s pie with a tender lamb and vegetable filling, topped with a layer of cooked spelt for extra fibre and texture.

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

For the filling:

For the topping:

Instructions

  1. Cook the Spelt: Place rinsed spelt and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25–30 minutes until tender. Drain, stir in butter and salt. Set aside.
  2. Make the Filling: Heat oil in a large frying pan. Add onion, carrots and garlic. Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the Lamb: Add lamb mince and brown for 6–7 minutes. Break up any lumps.
  4. Add Flavour: Stir in tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, salt and pepper.
  5. Simmer: Pour in stock. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until reduced and rich.
  6. Assemble: Spoon the filling into an ovenproof dish. Spread the cooked spelt over the top in an even layer.
  7. Bake: Bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 20 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts


Amount Per Serving
Calories 495kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 25g39%
Saturated Fat 10g50%
Cholesterol 65mg22%
Sodium 520mg22%
Potassium 710mg21%
Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
Dietary Fiber 6g24%
Sugars 5g
Protein 29g58%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

This pie can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking. Keeps well in the fridge for 3 days and freezes up to 1 month.

Keywords: shepherd's pie, spelt, healthy dinner, british classic, lamb recipes, comfort food

Optional Substitutions or Variations

  • Use beef mince instead of lamb if preferred.
  • Add peas or chopped mushrooms to the filling for more veg.
  • For a lighter topping, use half spelt and half mashed cauliflower.
  • Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter for dairy-free.

Tips & Variations

Customise It Easily

  • Low-carb tweak: Try swapping the spelt with mashed cauliflower or swede.
  • More flavour: Add a splash of red wine to the filling while simmering.
  • Make mini pies: Portion into ramekins for individual servings. Great for meal prep or dinner parties.

Conclusion

Spelt Shepherd’s Pie is the perfect mix of hearty and wholesome. It’s rich, satisfying, and brings a healthy twist to a British favourite. Give it a try — it’s a new take on comfort food you’ll want to make again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I use cooked spelt from the day before?

Yes, just reheat it slightly to make spreading easier.

What kind of spelt should I use?

Wholegrain or pearled spelt both work. Pearled cooks a bit faster and has a milder texture.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, swap lamb mince with lentils or a plant-based mince and use veg stock.

Can I freeze it fully assembled?

Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Cook from frozen at 180°C for 45–50 minutes.

Can I add cheese on top?

Absolutely. Grated cheddar or parmesan adds a nice crust if you like.

Rate this recipe

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Add a question

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Min

Share it on your social network