Creating Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato is a straightforward process if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake Potatoes: Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and prick them a few times with a fork. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes until tender.
3. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add Meat and Veggies: Stir in the ground beef or lamb, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Add the diced carrots, peas, tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven. Carefully slice the top off each potato and scoop out the insides into a bowl. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste, mashing until smooth.
6. Combine Filling and Mash: Fold the meat filling into the mashed potato mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.
7. Fill and Bake: Stuff the mixture back into the hollowed-out potato skins. Top with shredded cheese if using. Place the stuffed potatoes back on the baking sheet and return to the oven for 15 minutes, until the tops are golden.