Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
This Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate cozy dinner recipe, combining savory meat and vegetables under a blanket of creamy, cheesy goodness. You’ll find it’s a comforting meal perfect for any night, bringing warmth and flavor to your table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ground Beef: You can easily substitute with ground lamb or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Feel free to use your favorite combination of peas, carrots, corn, and green beans.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Cheddar Cheese: Any good melting cheese like Gruyere or Monterey Jack will also be delicious.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, large pot, potato masher, 9×13 inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Potatoes
Begin by peeling and quartering your potatoes. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are very tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Cook the Filling
While your potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Flavorful Base
Add the frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook gently for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Mash the Cheesy Topping
Once your potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly. Return the hot potatoes to the pot. Add the milk, softened butter, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
5. Assemble Your Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Carefully spread the cheesy mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the filling, using a fork to create peaks and ridges for a beautiful browned crust.
6. Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the mashed potato topping is golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. This makes for a truly cozy dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils and mushrooms for a hearty plant-based version.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh rosemary or parsley to the mashed potatoes or the filling for an aromatic boost.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the filling can add a subtle heat.
- Add a Crust: Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top of the mashed potatoes in the last 10 minutes of baking for an extra crispy crust.
Storage Instructions:
You can store leftover Shepherd’s Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I prepare this Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire pie a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What kind of potatoes are best for mashing?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes because of their starchy texture.
Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?
Absolutely! Once cooled, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Why is my mashed potato topping not browning?
Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. You can also place the pie under the broiler for a few minutes at the very end of baking for extra browning, watching it carefully to prevent burning.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube dissolved in it as a substitute.
How do I make sure the filling isn’t too watery?
Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef. Also, allow the filling to simmer for the recommended time to reduce the liquid and thicken the sauce.
