Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Oven-safe ramekins or mini pie dishes
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5-10 minutes until the vegetables are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Divide the beef mixture evenly among the ramekins or mini pie dishes.
6. Top each ramekin with a layer of mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly to cover the beef mixture.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes.
8. Bake the Liliputian Shepherd's Pies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the mashed potatoes are lightly browned.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 mini pies
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 450mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or ground chicken.
- Frozen mixed vegetables can be substituted with fresh vegetables such as carrots, peas, and corn.
- Beef broth can be substituted with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of shredded cheese.
Variations:
- Add a layer of cooked bacon or ham to the beef mixture for added flavor.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Top the mashed potatoes with breadcrumbs or panko for added crunch.
Tips and tricks:
- Make the mashed potatoes ahead of time to save time.
- Use a piping bag or ziplock bag with the corner snipped off to pipe the mashed potatoes on top of the beef mixture for a neater presentation.
- Use a spoon or fork to create a pattern on top of the mashed potatoes before sprinkling with cheese for added texture.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the Liliputian Shepherd's Pies in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Liliputian Shepherd's Pies on a platter with fresh herbs or chopped scallions sprinkled on top for added color.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme, chopped scallions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Pairings:
Serve the Liliputian Shepherd's Pies with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic green beans
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mashed potatoes are too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin them out.
- If the beef mixture is too dry, add more beef broth or tomato paste to create a saucier consistency.
Food safety advice:
Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Shepherd's Pie originated in the United Kingdom and Ireland as a way to use up leftover meat and vegetables. It traditionally consists of a layer of ground lamb or beef topped with mashed potatoes.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, hearty, comforting.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Liliputian Shepherd's Pies with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
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Taste: Savory, Herby, Rich, Comforting, Meaty