If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal with a twist, our Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato is the perfect choice. This creative spin on the classic Shepherd’s Pie combines all the savory goodness of the traditional dish with the convenience and deliciousness of a baked potato. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful meal at home!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or fresh if preferred)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Serving:
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the peas, carrots, and corn. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the mixture has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter, and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Divide the filling mixture among 4 oven-safe dishes or ramekins. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, spreading them evenly.
- Place the dishes on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef or lamb with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or a pinch of smoked paprika to the filling for additional depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Our Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato combines the comforting flavors of a classic Shepherd’s Pie with the delicious convenience of a baked potato. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
We’d love to see how your baked potato turns out! Share your cooking experience with us in the comments or tag us on social media.