Shepherd's Pie Recipe With Ground Beef
Introduction
Shepherd’s pie, traditionally made with lamb, enjoys immense popularity worldwide. A delightful variation, the shepherd’s pie recipe with ground beef, offers a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings. This dish combines a savory meat base with a creamy mashed potato topping, creating a comforting and satisfying experience. Its ease of preparation and adaptability to various tastes make it a favorite in many households.
Ingredients
Ground Beef: 1.5 – 2 pounds, lean or regular. Vegetables: 1 large onion (diced), 2 carrots (diced), 2 celery stalks (diced), 1 cup frozen peas, 1 cup frozen corn. Beef Broth: 1.5 cups. Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons. Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon. All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (optional, for thickening). Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Spices: Salt, black pepper, dried thyme (1 teaspoon), dried rosemary (1/2 teaspoon). Mashed Potato Topping: 4-5 large potatoes (peeled and quartered), 1/2 cup milk or cream, 4 tablespoons butter, salt, pepper. Substitute sweet potatoes for a sweeter variation. Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping).
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare Vegetables: Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small, uniform pieces. Thawing frozen peas and corn is optional. 2. Prepare Potatoes: Peel and quarter the potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). 3. Season Ground Beef: While not strictly necessary, lightly seasoning the ground beef with salt and pepper before cooking helps enhance its flavor. A touch of garlic powder can also be added.
Cooking Instructions
1. Saut Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery and saut until softened (about 5-7 minutes). 2. Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. 3. Add Flavor: Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. If using flour, sprinkle it over the beef and vegetables and cook for 1 minute before adding the broth. 4. Simmer Filling: Pour in the beef broth and stir to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the thyme and rosemary. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the frozen peas and corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 5. Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk or cream and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy, adding more liquid if needed to reach the desired consistency. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 6. Assemble Shepherd’s Pie: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Pour the ground beef mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or individual ramekins. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. 7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potato topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. For a deeper color, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. 8. Rest: Let the shepherd’s pie rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Shepherd’s pie is a complete meal in itself. It pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or crusty bread. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a touch of freshness.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Prevent Soggy Bottom: Drain the ground beef thoroughly to avoid a watery filling. Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry if needed. Achieve Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: Use a potato ricer or hand mixer to avoid overworking the potatoes, which can result in a gluey texture. Even Potato Layer: Use a piping bag or a fork to create an even layer of mashed potatoes for uniform browning. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the filling and burn the potato topping. Monitor the pie closely during the last few minutes of baking. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a smoky or spicy kick.
Explore More Cooking Guides
The shepherd’s pie recipe with ground beef stands as a testament to comforting and versatile cuisine. Its rich flavors, combined with a creamy potato topping, provide a satisfying and adaptable meal for any occasion. It is a dish that invites personalization and can be modified to suit individual preferences and dietary needs. Now that the fundamentals are understood, readers are encouraged to recreate this classic at home and to explore more delectable recipes at foodrecipestory.com.
