Shepherd's pie, a classic comfort food, traditionally involves a lengthy process of making mashed potatoes from scratch. But who has time for that? This recipe leverages the convenience of instant mashed potatoes without sacrificing flavor, allowing you to enjoy this hearty meal in a fraction of the time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a warm, satisfying dinner.
What You'll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
For the Topping:
- 4 cups instant mashed potatoes (follow package directions for amount of water/milk)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk (or cream for richer flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground lamb to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then pour in the beef broth. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the frozen peas and corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Prepare the Topping: While the filling simmers, prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to package directions. Stir in the butter, milk (or cream), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish (or individual ramekins). Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. If desired, sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Serve: Let the shepherd's pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. Just be sure to add them along with the carrots and celery, adjusting cooking times as needed.
What kind of meat can I use besides lamb?
Ground beef is a popular alternative to lamb and works perfectly well in this recipe. Ground turkey or a mixture of meats can also be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the pie just before baking. The mashed potato topping is best added right before baking for optimal texture.
How do I make it healthier?
To make this a healthier option, use lean ground lamb or beef, reduce the amount of oil, and add more vegetables. You can also use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk in the mashed potatoes.
What can I serve with Shepherd's Pie?
A simple green salad or steamed green beans make excellent sides to balance the richness of the shepherd's pie.
This recipe provides a quick and delicious way to enjoy this classic comfort food. The use of instant potatoes makes it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, while still delivering the satisfying flavors you expect from a traditional shepherd's pie. Enjoy!
