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Shepherds Pie

Shepherds Pie

The ultimate comfort food, Shepherds Pie is a delicious blend of savory beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a cozy winter dinner, this easy weeknight recipe will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Make it tonight for a meal everyone will love!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium russet potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon butter, unsalted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 pound beef, ground, 95% lean
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano, dried
  • 4 ounces cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
  • 14 1/2 ounces corn, canned
  • 1 can green beans, canned
  • 1 medium cantaloupe

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Grater
  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Skillet
  • Peeler
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. First, prepare the mashed potatoes by peeling and chopping the medium russet potatoes. Place the chopped potatoes into a large pot of boiling water. Cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 20 minutes. You'll know they are ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork. Once cooked, drain the water from the potatoes.
  2. Add the butter, salt, and milk to the drained potatoes. Using a handheld mixer, mix well until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. This will ensure your mashed potatoes have a rich flavor and a velvety mouthfeel.
  3. For the casserole, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Season it with black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Cook the beef until it is nicely browned and crumbled, ensuring it is no longer pink. This should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
  4. While the beef is cooking, grate the cheddar cheese and set it aside for later. The cheese will add a deliciously creamy finish once melted on top of the pie.
  5. Once the beef is cooked, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for achieving a nice golden-brown topping.
  6. In a 2-quart dish, layer the cooked ground beef across the bottom. Make sure to spread it evenly so every bite has that delicious meaty flavor.
  7. Next, sprinkle the seasoned salt evenly over the beef to enhance the flavors.
  8. Drain and rinse the corn and green beans. Layer these vegetables over the beef, ensuring to sprinkle a little more seasoned salt on top for added flavor.
  9. Now, add a generous layer of the creamy mashed potatoes on top of the vegetables. Spread it evenly with a spatula to cover the filling completely.
  10. Finally, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potato layer and give it a light sprinkle of seasoned salt for good measure.
  11. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. You'll know it's done when everything is heated through and the cheese is bubbling. Once done, allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into 6 to 8 servings.
  12. Serve each slice with refreshing cantaloupe slices on the side for a lovely balance of flavors.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked pie for up to 2 months. Just cover it tightly and bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Pairing: Serve with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences; herbs and spices can make a huge difference.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground meat with lentils and add more vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.