Shepherd’s Pie 🥧
Overview:
Shepherd’s Pie is a beloved comfort food, born out of necessity and cherished through generations. This hearty dish, packed with flavorful ingredients, is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a hungry crowd without breaking the bank. With simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, Shepherd’s Pie is a go-to recipe that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Follow along to create a delicious meal that will have your family coming back for seconds!
Recipe Information:
- Name: Shepherd’s Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 1 pan full
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Onion |
| 2 | Celery ribs |
| 1 | Green bell pepper |
| 3 | Garlic cloves |
| 1 | Bunch of fresh parsley |
| – | Ground beef |
| 1 | Packet of American cheese |
| 4-5 | Potatoes |
| 4 | Tablespoons of salt |
| – | Real butter |
| – | Milk |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 987.8
- Fat Content: 63.3g
- Saturated Fat: 35.8g
- Cholesterol: 198.2mg
- Sodium: 616.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 73.2g
- Fiber: 9.8g
- Sugar: 5.5g
- Protein: 34.4g
Instructions:
1. Prep the Veggies:
- Begin by chopping all the vegetables. Keep the garlic and parsley separate from the others.
2. Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it apart into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Secret Mash Technique:
- Here’s a secret trick: mash the cooked ground beef with a square-holed potato masher. This helps to create a smoother texture.
4. Add the Veggies:
- Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the skillet. Allow them to simmer, covered, until they become tender.
5. Infuse with Flavor:
- Stir in the minced garlic and chopped parsley, letting them simmer until the garlic softens and releases its aroma.
6. Prepare the Potatoes:
- While the meat and veggies simmer, peel and cube the potatoes, ensuring they’re thoroughly washed. Cook them in boiling water until they’re tender, usually around 15 to 18 minutes.
7. Mash the Potatoes:
- Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add a generous amount of real butter, then use a mixer to mash them until smooth. Gradually add milk until you reach the desired consistency.
8. Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cooked ground beef mixture into a deep casserole dish, creating a layer about 3 inches thick. Top it with slices of American cheese, covering the entire surface.
9. Add the Potato Topping:
- Carefully spread the creamy mashed potatoes over the cheese layer, ensuring it covers the entire top of the dish.
10. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the assembled Shepherd’s Pie in the preheated oven and bake until the entire dish is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, serve this comforting dish hot to your eager family. They’re sure to love the savory flavors and creamy texture. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
12. Bonus Tip:
- Shepherd’s Pie often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Consider making extra for leftovers that are perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Conclusion:
Shepherd’s Pie isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary tradition passed down through generations. With its simple yet satisfying combination of ingredients, this dish has the power to bring families together around the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, Shepherd’s Pie is always a welcome addition to any menu. So why not try your hand at making this beloved classic tonight? Your family will thank you for it!
