Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food that combines seasoned ground beef, mixed vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all baked to perfection. While traditional recipes often use lamb, ground beef is a popular and affordable alternative. This dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also versatile, allowing for various ingredient substitutions to suit personal preferences. Whether you're using leftover mashed potatoes or preparing them fresh, Shepherd’s Pie is a family-friendly meal that's both delicious and easy to make.
For the Meat Filling:
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tablespoons butter
½ cup milk
Salt and pepper, to taste
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Remove any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for an additional minute.
Add Broth and Vegetables:
Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Pie:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, smoothing with a spatula.
Bake:
Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
Serve:
Allow the Shepherd’s Pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty and comforting meal!
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
Protein: 28g
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 229mg
Cholesterol: 128mg