Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

why make this recipe

Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. It combines hearty ground beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes into one delicious casserole. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for family dinners and gatherings. With its rich flavors and appealing texture, you’ll surely enjoy making and sharing this dish.

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how to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 3 large potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them until they are softened, which takes about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Transfer the beef mixture to a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Top the beef with prepared mashed potatoes, spreading them out to cover the filling completely.
7. Dot the mashed potatoes with butter and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if you choose to use it.
8. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Serve the Shepherd’s Pie Casserole warm, right from the oven. It makes a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread if you like. For a cozy dinner, a glass of your favorite drink will complement this dish perfectly.

how to store Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it. Make sure it’s fully cooled, then cover it tightly before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

tips to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

• For extra flavor, you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture.
• Use leftover mashed potatoes if you have them for a quicker prep.
• Make it a vegetarian dish by replacing ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.

variation

You can easily adjust the filling by adding other vegetables like green beans or bell peppers. If you prefer a spicy kick, try adding some hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will make the dish a little lighter.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until warm. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist if needed.

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