Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add frozen mixed vegetables, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker.
4. Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the beef mixture in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes.
7. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
5. Temperature:
Low or high setting on slow cooker
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef
- Fresh vegetables can be used instead of frozen
- Beef broth can be used instead of tomato sauce
Variations:
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for the mashed topping
- Add a layer of cooked bacon to the beef mixture before adding the mashed potatoes
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker
- If the mashed potatoes are too thick, add a little bit of milk to thin them out
- For a crispy topping, broil the shepherd's pie in the oven for a few minutes after cooking in the slow cooker
Storage instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or scallions over the top before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or crusty bread.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the mashed potatoes are too runny, add more potatoes or let them cook longer to thicken.
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 is a traditional British dish made with ground lamb or beef and topped with mashed potatoes.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, hearty, and comforting.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: British
Taste: Savory, Meaty, Herby, Comforting, Rich