Description
Learn how to make a delicious Quick and Easy Shepherd’s Pie with this simple recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon salt (5 ml), plus more to taste
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds potatoes (680-907 g), peeled and quartered
- 8 Tablespoons (120 ml) (1 stick) butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about 360 ml)
- 1-2 cups (360 ml) vegetables—diced carrots, corn, peas
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (680 g)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (120 ml)
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, pepper, other seasonings of choice
Instructions
- Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a medium pot and cover them with cold water, ensuring the water is at least an inch above the potatoes. Add a teaspoon of salt. Heat the water to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer, cooking until the potatoes are tender, approximately 20 minutes.
- Set your oven to preheat at 400°F.
- While the potatoes are simmering, melt half of the butter (4 tablespoons) in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and cook until they soften, about 6 to 10 minutes. For the vegetables, add diced carrots with the onions as they require a similar cooking time. Introduce peas or corn towards the end of the onion cooking time, or once the meat has started cooking, since they need minimal cooking.
- Introduce the ground beef to the pan with the onions and vegetables, cooking until it loses its pink color. If there’s too much fat, drain it, leaving about a tablespoon. Season with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook uncovered for 10 minutes, adding more broth if the mixture appears to dry out. Taste the filling and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Once the potatoes are cooked and easily pierced with a fork, drain them and transfer them to a bowl. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and mash them until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large baking dish, such as a 9 x 13-inch casserole, spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly. Layer the mashed potatoes on top of the beef. Use a fork to create texture on the surface of the mashed potatoes for better browning. Feel free to make decorative designs with the fork if desired.
- Place the dish in the preheated 400°F oven and bake until the top is browned and bubbling, about 30 minutes. If needed, use the broiler for a few minutes to achieve a golden top. (Be cautious when using Pyrex or glass dishes under high broil heat to avoid breaking; ceramic or metal dishes are safer for broiling.)
Notes
- Consider using lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
- Enhance the flavor by adding garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- For a crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
