Slow Cooker Shepherd's Pie with Guinness - This rich and savory dish offers all the comfort and flavors of a classic shepherd pie recipe, yet can simmer all day in the crockpot while you are working away.
Cut the lamb into small bite-size pieces. Place the meat in an oven-safe non-stick skillet (or cast iron skillet) and set over medium heat. Brown the lamb on all sides. Then push to the side of the pan and add the onions. Soften for 5-6 minutes.
Pour the lamb, onions, and all remaining ingredients, excluding the mashed potatoes and cheese, into a 6-quart slow cooker. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and stir well. Wipe down the sides of the slow cooker with a dry paper towel. Then spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the beef mixture all the way to the edges of the crock to seal in the ingredients below.
Place a long piece of paper towel over the slow cooker to absorb the steam, and cover with the lid. Turn on high for 4-5 hours, or low for 8-10 hours.
When ready to serve, sprinkle the cheese over the top of the potatoes and place the lid back on for 5 minutes to melt the cheese. Serve hot and garnish with extra herbs if you have them.
Notes
Runny Potatoes: Homemade mashed potatoes are usually thicker than store-bought potatoes. If using pre-packaged mashed potatoes, you may want to press the top firmly with paper towels to absorb as much extra moisture as possible, before spreading them on the top of the meat mixture.OVEN INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Set a large 12-14 inch deep-dish cast iron skillet over medium heat. Brown the lamb and onions (as described in the instructions above.)
Then add all remaining ingredients, except the mashed potatoes and cheese. Stir well and turn off the heat.
Cover with a heavy lid (or with tight foil) and bake for 90 minutes.
Spread the mahed potatoes over the top. Bake, uncovered, another 20 minutes. Then sprinkle the cheese over the top and bake for 3-5 more minutes.