Short on Time? Make an Easy Shepherd’s Pie With This Recipe
Busy nights are the worst. The days are already so long, and after a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is stand over the stove for hours. So if you’re looking for an easy and nourishing meal, you’ll want to try this shepherd’s pie recipe.
Not only is shepherd’s pie a classic dish, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. You simply have to sauté the vegetables, add the meat and broth, then top with a creamy mashed potato layer. It’s the perfect meal when you’re short on time, yet it’s still incredibly flavorful and filling. Plus, it freezes well, so you can save it for later. In this post, we’ll share our favorite shepherd’s pie recipe and offer tips and tricks to help you make a delicious meal.
Ingredients
This easy recipe makes making a delicious shepherd’s pie easier than ever. You can make a tasty dish with the right ingredients in no time.
Start by gathering each of the ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 4 cups mixed vegetables, drained
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
Once you have all of your ingredients, it’s time to start prepping the pie. First, pre-cook the ground beef and onion in a large skillet until the beef is no longer pink. Drain the excess fat, then set aside. Next, open your cans of mixed vegetables with an electric can opener and cook them in a small pot over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
Now it’s time to make the pie filling. Begin by mashing the potatoes in a large bowl, adding milk and butter for creamier mashed potatoes. Set aside while you make the filling. Heat some vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat to make the filling. Add the garlic and saute until tender. Add the ground beef and onion mixture and cook until browned. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper, then cook for several minutes until thickened. Add the beef broth and flour to form a thick mixture, stirring for about 5 minutes. Add the pre-cooked vegetables to the mixture, stirring together until evenly distributed.
Now it’s time to assemble your shepherd’s pie by pouring the pie filling into an oven-safe baking dish that has been greased or lined with parchment paper. Spread it evenly in the dish, then top with a layer of mashed potatoes. Top with shredded cheese as desired.
Next, it’s time to bake your shepherd’s pie! First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place your assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drippings during baking, then place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until hot throughout and lightly golden on top.
Your shepherd’s pie is ready to be presented! Add tasty toppings, such as extra cheese or chives, to top your dish. Serve with a green vegetable as a side for a lighter meal, or for a heartier option, pair it with additional potato dishes like roasted potatoes or homemade fries.
Conclusion
Shepherd’s pie is a classic dish that takes minimal effort and can be made quickly. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to enjoy a comforting, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavorful meats and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes will surely be a hit with the entire family. So try this recipe and make it your go-to when you’re short on time and need a hearty, nourishing meal!