Beef Shepherd’s Pie

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🍽️ Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Description

Beef Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food — a savory, layered casserole with a hearty beef and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. This classic dish combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and wholesome ingredients, making it a family favorite for cozy dinners or meal prepping.

🧂 Ingredients

For the Beef Filling

  • 1½ lbs (680 g) ground beef

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 medium carrots, diced

  • 1 cup frozen peas

  • 1 cup corn kernels (optional)

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)

For the Mashed Potato Topping

  • 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • ÂĽ cup unsalted butter

  • ½ cup milk or heavy cream

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

    • Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes).

    • Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

  2. Cook the Beef Filling

    • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

    • Add onions, garlic, and carrots; sautĂ© until softened.

    • Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

    • Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and flour.

    • Pour in beef broth and simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.

    • Add peas and corn; mix well. Remove from heat.

  3. Assemble the Pie

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

    • Spread beef mixture evenly in a baking dish.

    • Top with mashed potatoes, spreading to cover completely.

    • (Optional) Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.

  4. Bake

    • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

    • Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

🍴 Servings

  • Makes 6 servings

  • Ideal for family dinners or meal prep

đź’ˇ Notes

  • You can use ground lamb instead of beef for a more traditional Shepherd’s Pie.

  • For a lighter version, substitute cauliflower mash for potatoes.

  • Add a splash of red wine to the beef mixture for extra depth.

  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

🧠 Tips

  • Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the fluffiest mash.

  • Run a fork across the top before baking — it creates beautiful browned ridges.

  • Allow the filling to cool slightly before topping with potatoes to prevent sinking.

  • If you like crispy edges, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

🥗 Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 410 kcal

  • Protein: 28 g

  • Carbohydrates: 28 g

  • Fat: 20 g

  • Fiber: 4 g

  • Sodium: 720 mg

  • Sugar: 5 g

(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High in protein from beef, supporting muscle repair and energy.

  • Rich in potassium and vitamin C from potatoes.

  • Fiber-rich vegetables support digestion and immunity.

  • A balanced one-dish meal combining carbs, proteins, and vegetables.

âť“ Q&A

Q1: Can I make Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Q2: How can I make it gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

Q3: Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Store portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Q4: What can I serve with it?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or buttered peas pair beautifully.

Q5: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, but homemade mash gives a creamier, richer result.

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