Hearty Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef: A Comforting Classic
Warm your soul with a comforting and hearty Shepherd’s Pie made with flavorful ground beef. This timeless dish combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a dish to impress your guests, Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
For the Ground Beef Filling:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
– 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes. Place them in a large pot of cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, typically around 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Filling
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and frozen peas until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Base
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Mashed Potatoes
While the filling is simmering, drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the unsalted butter and milk. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the filling, and use a fork to create a decorative pattern on top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled Shepherd’s Pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the Shepherd’s Pie to cool slightly before serving. Scoop out generous portions onto plates and savor the comforting combination of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes.
Step 8: Leftover Love
Shepherd’s Pie tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven for a satisfying meal.
Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef is a comforting classic that brings together the heartiness of seasoned ground beef, the goodness of vegetables, and the creaminess of mashed potatoes. This dish is not only a family favorite but also a perfect choice for gatherings or potlucks. With its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients, this Shepherd’s Pie is sure to become a staple in your repertoire of comforting recipes. So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and create a warm and satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the comforting goodness!
