Cheesy Shepherd’s Pie with Bacon: A Comfort Food Classic

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This Cheesy Shepherd’s Pie with Bacon is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that combines savory ground beef, a medley of vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese. Topped with crumbled bacon for an irresistible smoky crunch, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night at home.

Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy & Smoky Twist: Traditional shepherd’s pie gets an upgrade with shredded cheddar and crispy bacon.
• Comfort Food Staple: Layers of creamy potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese make this a go-to comfort meal.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry and freezer staples like ground beef, frozen vegetables, and mashed potatoes.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients or seasonings to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, hearty flavors.

Ingredients for Cheesy Shepherd’s Pie

For the Filling

• 1 lb ground beef: Provides the savory base for the dish. Ground turkey or lamb can be used as substitutes.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the savory flavor with a hint of aromatic spice.
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: A quick and easy way to add veggies to the dish.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste: Adds a rich, tangy flavor to the filling.
• 1 cup beef broth: Helps create a luscious, thickened sauce.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for a hearty consistency.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the filling.

For the Topping

• 3 cups mashed potatoes: Use homemade or store-bought for a creamy, comforting topping.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a melty, cheesy layer on top.
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: A smoky, crispy topping that elevates the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish (9×9-inch or similar size) to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and all-purpose flour, ensuring the beef is evenly coated.
5. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring, creating a thick sauce.
6. Add the frozen peas and carrots, stir, and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie

1. Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
2. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture, spreading them evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
4. Top with crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.

Step 4: Bake the Shepherd’s Pie

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
2. Remove from the oven and let the shepherd’s pie cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie

1. Use Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a smooth and fluffy topping, mix mashed potatoes with butter and milk before spreading them on the pie.
2. Brown the Beef Properly: Let the ground beef cook without stirring for a few minutes to develop a deeper flavor.
3. Don’t Overload the Dish: Spread each layer evenly to ensure every bite has the perfect balance of beef, veggies, and potatoes.
4. Add Extra Seasoning: A pinch of smoked paprika or thyme can enhance the flavor of the filling.
5. Let it Cool: Allow the pie to rest before serving to set the layers and make it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy shepherd’s pie pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes to round out the meal:

• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the rich pie.
• Dinner Rolls: Serve with warm, buttery rolls to soak up the delicious gravy.
• Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make excellent sides.
• Cranberry Sauce: For a sweet and tangy contrast, add a dollop of cranberry sauce on the side.

Recipe Variations

1. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey and use chicken broth instead of beef broth.
2. Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie: Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or plant-based meat.
3. Sweet Potato Topping: Use mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a slightly sweet twist.
4. Cheesy Garlic Potatoes: Add garlic powder or minced garlic to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
5. Spicy Shepherd’s Pie: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the beef filling for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~430
• Protein: ~25g
• Fat: ~23g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fiber: ~3g

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

• Allow the shepherd’s pie to cool completely before storing. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Assemble the pie but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To bake from frozen, remove plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to brown the top.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes work well if you’re short on time. Prepare them according to the package instructions and spread them over the beef filling.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the shepherd’s pie up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

3. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh peas and diced carrots. Steam or blanch them before adding them to the filling.

4. Can I skip the bacon?

Of course! The bacon adds extra flavor, but the dish is still delicious without it.

5. Can I add other cheeses?

Definitely! Try using a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a cheesy twist.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Shepherd’s Pie with Bacon is the perfect combination of hearty, creamy, and cheesy goodness. With its savory ground beef and vegetable filling, creamy mashed potato topping, and golden bacon-cheddar crust, it’s a meal that will satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food!

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