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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.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 1 hr 5 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Estimated Cost: $  8
Calories: 495 kcal
Best Season: Winter, Fall
Dietary: Contains meat, gluten
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
    For the filling:
  • 1 tbsp, Olive Oil
  • 1 Onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 Carrots (peeled and diced)
  • 2 cloves, Garlic (minced)
  • 500 g, Lamb Mince
  • 1 tbsp, Tomato Purée
  • 1 tsp, Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 tsp, Dried Rosemary
  • 200 ml, Lamb or Vegetable Stock
  • Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
    • For the topping:
  • 120 g, Dry Spelt (rinsed)
  • 600 ml, Water
  • 1 tbsp, Butter
  • ¼ tsp, Sea Salt
Instructions
  1. 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. 2
    Make the Filling: Heat oil in a large frying pan. Add onion, carrots and garlic. Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened.
  3. 3
    Add the Lamb: Add lamb mince and brown for 6–7 minutes. Break up any lumps.
  4. 4
    Add Flavour: Stir in tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, salt and pepper.
  5. 5
    Simmer: Pour in stock. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until reduced and rich.
  6. 6
    Assemble: Spoon the filling into an ovenproof dish. Spread the cooked spelt over the top in an even layer.
  7. 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.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-shepherds-pie/
Valentina - Spelt Recipes
Valentina
A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!