Meat > British > Shepherd Pies

Rachel's Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.

4. Add frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened.

6. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.

7. Spread the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture, making sure to cover it completely.

8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes.

9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 8 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 350
- Total fat: 17g
- Saturated fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 21g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or ground lamb.
- Frozen mixed vegetables can be substituted with fresh vegetables of your choice.
- Beef broth can be substituted with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Tomato paste can be substituted with tomato sauce or ketchup.
- Worcestershire sauce can be substituted with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of cheese you prefer.

Variations:
- Add a layer of cooked bacon or ham to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a healthier twist.
- Add a layer of corn or peas to the beef mixture for more vegetables.
- Use leftover mashed potatoes instead of making them from scratch.

Tips and tricks:
- Make the mashed potatoes ahead of time to save time.
- Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes for a rustic texture.
- Use a piping bag to pipe the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture for a more decorative presentation.
- Let the shepherd's pie cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or chives

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beef mixture is too watery, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken it.
- If the mashed potatoes are too dry, add a splash of milk or butter to make them creamier.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.

Food history:
- Shepherd's pie originated in England and was traditionally made with lamb or mutton.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, hearty, comforting

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: British

Taste: Savory, Rich, Comforting, Hearty, Meaty, Herby