EASY SHEPHERD’S PIE WITH CHEESY MASHED POTATOES

This Easy Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting classic, perfect for busy weeknights or as a hearty family meal. With savory ground beef, mixed vegetables, and a rich tomato and Worcestershire-flavored sauce topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is a one-pan wonder that’s guaranteed to satisfy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy mashed potatoes paired with savory beef is pure comfort in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: Using frozen mixed vegetables and prepared mashed potatoes makes this a simple, time-saving recipe.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients or seasonings to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• One Dish Meal: Everything bakes together, so cleanup is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: A meal the whole family will love, with balanced flavors and textures.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Beef and Vegetable Layer:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): The base of the pie, providing a hearty and savory filling. Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for variations.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Boosts the flavor of the beef with its savory aroma.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables (1½ cups): A quick and easy way to include carrots, peas, corn, and green beans.

For the Sauce:

• Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
• Beef Broth (½ cup): Keeps the filling moist and enhances the savory flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Provides a tangy, umami boost to the sauce.

For the Topping:

• Mashed Potatoes (4 cups, prepared): The creamy topping that makes Shepherd’s Pie iconic. Use homemade or store-bought mashed potatoes.
• Cheddar Cheese (1½ cups, shredded): Creates a golden, cheesy crust on top of the potatoes.

Seasoning and Essentials:

• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Salt (1 teaspoon) & Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Enhances and balances all the flavors.

How to Make Easy Shepherd’s Pie

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.

2. Prepare 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, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and ½ cup of beef broth.
5. Add the 1½ cups of frozen mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.

3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie

1. Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Spoon the prepared mashed potatoes over the beef mixture, spreading them into an even layer to completely cover the filling.
3. Sprinkle the 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.

4. Bake

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
2. If desired, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy cheese topping.

5. Rest and Serve

1. Remove the Shepherd’s Pie from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
3. Serve hot, and enjoy with your favorite condiments like ketchup, hot sauce, or sour cream.

Pro Tips for Perfect Shepherd’s Pie

1. Smooth Mashed Potatoes: For the creamiest topping, use warm, fluffy mashed potatoes and spread them evenly with a spatula.
2. Thicker Filling: If you prefer a thicker filling, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the beef mixture before baking.
3. Cheese Options: Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Parmesan for added flavor.
4. Layer Evenly: Spread the mashed potatoes gently to avoid mixing with the beef layer.
5. Make It Ahead: Assemble the pie ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie: Replace ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable broth for the sauce.
2. Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
3. Sweet Potato Topping: Use mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
4. Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables in the filling.
5. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a hint of heat.

Perfect Pairings

1. Fresh Salad: Serve with a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for balance.
2. Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls or crusty bread are great for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Side dishes like steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus pair well with the casserole.
4. Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir complements the hearty flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I make Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pie, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time if chilled.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Cool leftovers completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?

Yes! Assemble the pie, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

4. What’s the best way to reheat Shepherd’s Pie?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish, covered with foil, in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

5. Can I make mashed potatoes from scratch for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade mashed potatoes are a great option and will add even more flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

This Easy Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, colorful vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes topped with golden cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Pair it with a fresh salad or dinner rolls, and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors in every bite. Try this recipe today for a classic meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!

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