Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- 9-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add frozen peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, milk, and butter. Mix until smooth.
6. Spread the beef mixture evenly into a 9-inch baking dish.
7. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture and spread evenly.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together flour and water until smooth.
9. Pour the flour mixture over the mashed potatoes.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 375
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 21g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground lamb or ground turkey.
- Frozen peas and carrots can be substituted with any frozen mixed vegetables.
- Beef broth can be substituted with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Tomato paste can be substituted with ketchup or barbecue sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce can be substituted with soy sauce or steak sauce.
- Dried thyme can be substituted with dried rosemary or dried oregano.
- Mashed potatoes can be substituted with sweet potato mash or cauliflower mash.
Variations:
- Add shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking.
- Use leftover roast beef instead of ground beef.
- Add chopped mushrooms to the beef mixture.
- Use sweet potato mash instead of regular mashed potatoes.
Tips and tricks:
- Make the mashed potatoes ahead of time to save time.
- Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to make the mashed potatoes smooth.
- To make the mashed potatoes creamier, add more milk or butter.
- To make the brown gravy thicker, add more flour.
- Let the Shepherd's Pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
Storage instructions:
Leftover Shepherd's Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the Shepherd's Pie in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Shepherd's Pie in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread
- Creamed spinach
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mashed potatoes are too dry, add more milk or butter.
- If the brown gravy is too thin, add more flour.
- If the Shepherd's Pie is too dry, add more beef broth.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
- Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Food history:
Shepherd's Pie originated in England in the 18th century. It was originally made with leftover roast beef or lamb and mashed potatoes.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, meaty, and comforting.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
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Taste: Savory, Meaty, Rich, Comforting, Hearty