Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

why make this recipe

Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for any family meal. It combines ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, making it a complete meal in one dish. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also allows you to use up leftover mashed potatoes, making it a great option for busy weeknights. You’ll love how quickly this casserole comes together and how delicious it tastes.

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 oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Transfer the beef mixture to a casserole dish, spreading evenly.
7. Top with prepared mashed potatoes, spreading to cover the filling completely.
8. Dot the mashed potatoes with butter and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if using.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Serve your Shepherd’s Pie Casserole hot from the oven. You can add a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. This dish can be served in generous portions, and it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

how to store Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole before baking it. Just cover it well and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

tips to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

• For a creamier mashed potato topping, add a bit of milk or cream to the mashed potatoes before spreading them on the casserole.
• You can add extra spices like thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture for added flavor.
• If you want a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or sautéed mushrooms.

variation

You can easily customize this casserole by using different types of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken. Also, you can change up the vegetables to your preference, using whatever you have on hand, like green beans or bell peppers.

FAQs

1. Can I make Shepherd’s Pie Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day before baking.

2. Is Shepherd’s Pie Casserole gluten-free?
This recipe can be gluten-free if you choose gluten-free broth and check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

3. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes for a quicker option. Just follow the instructions on the package to prepare them before topping the casserole.

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