Low Sugar Shepherd's Pie with Cauliflower Mash
Comfort food doesn't get much more satisfying than a bubbling, golden-topped shepherd's pie, and this version delivers every bit of that cozy, hearty energy without a gram of added sugar in sight. The filling is built on ground lamb slow-cooked with onion, carrots, celery, mushrooms, and a deeply savory blend of thyme, rosemary, turmeric, and ginger — all brought together with bone broth and coconut aminos instead of the sweetened sauces that sneak into so many classic recipes. Apple cider vinegar adds just enough brightness to balance the richness, and arrowroot starch thickens everything into a glossy, spoon-coating sauce that feels indulgent without any shortcuts. Instead of the usual buttery potato topping, a cloud of whipped cauliflower mash — made creamy with coconut oil — seals in the filling and bakes up with those irresistible golden peaks. It's the kind of dish that genuinely satisfies a craving for something warm and filling, and you won't miss the sugar for a single bite.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the cauliflower mash
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lb), cut into florets
- 3 tbsp coconut oil, divided
- ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
For the filling
- 1 ½ lb ground lamb
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos
Chef's tipSoy sauce is saltier and less sweet; start with less and adjust. - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup bone broth
- 1 tbsp arrowroot starch
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until completely tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 12–15 minutes. Drain thoroughly and return to the pot.
- 2
Add 2 tbsp of the coconut oil and 1/2 tsp salt to the drained cauliflower. Mash with a potato masher or beat with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy, with no large lumps remaining. Taste and adjust salt. Set aside.
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