Craving a comforting dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds? Look no further than Rachel Ray's Shepherd's Pie! This classic British recipe combines savory ground lamb or beef with a medley of colorful vegetables, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a total cooking time of 50 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time. Ready to impress your loved ones with a culinary masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large oven-safe casserole dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground lamb or beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains.
- Add chopped onions and diced carrots to the meat. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and become translucent.
- Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat the meat and vegetables. This will enhance the depth of flavor.
- Add frozen peas to the meat mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Spread the prepared mashed potatoes in an even layer over the meat mixture, creating a smooth top surface.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potato layer.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the pie to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot, portioning into individual servings and garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Meat Choices: While traditional shepherd's pie uses lamb, feel free to substitute with ground beef for a milder flavor or even a mix of both for a richer taste.
- Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize the vegetable mix! Adding corn, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Mashed Potato Perfection: For the ultimate creamy topping, use freshly made mashed potatoes. If you're short on time, store-bought mashed potatoes work too—just make sure to season them well!
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Experiment with different types of cheese! Try using Gruyère or a sharp white cheddar for a unique twist on the classic.
- Baking Tips: To achieve that perfect golden brown crust, broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Resting Time: Allow the shepherd's pie to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness to your dish. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delightful Shepherd's Pie that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
