Hearty Shepherd's Pie with Beef
This Shepherd's Pie is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for a chilly March evening or a festive St. Patrick's Day celebration. It combines a rich, flavorful ground beef mixture, loaded with carrots, peas, and corn, simmered in a savory gravy. This hearty filling is then generously topped with a cloud of creamy mashed potatoes, baked until golden brown and slightly crispy. It’s a satisfying meal that appeals to all ages.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). For the filling: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat and set beef aside.
- 2Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and diced carrots to the skillet and cook until softened, about 7-8 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- 3Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for another minute. Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then add dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir in frozen peas and corn. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Remove from heat.
- 4For the mashed potatoes: While the filling simmers, place quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are very tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- 5Return drained potatoes to the hot pot. Add milk and butter, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese.
- 6Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the beef filling in the skillet. If desired, use a fork to create ridges on top for extra crispiness. Sprinkle with remaining shredded cheddar cheese, if using. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use lamb instead of beef?
Yes, traditionally Shepherd's Pie is made with lamb, which gives it a distinct flavor. Simply substitute ground lamb for ground beef in the recipe.
How can I make the potato topping extra crispy?
Beyond creating ridges with a fork, you can dot the top with a few extra small pats of butter before baking, or broil for the last 2-3 minutes (watch carefully to prevent burning).
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire pie, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, or allow it to come closer to room temperature first.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
