Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
Calling all comfort food lovers! This Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is the ultimate cozy meal that will warm you up from the inside out. Packed with savory flavors and creamy mashed potatoes, this hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- 2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are soft.
- 3. Stir in the mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Cook until heated through.
- 4. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and spread mashed potatoes on top.
- 5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
- 6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired and serve hot.
Popular Questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
- What can I use as a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
Yes, feel free to use fresh vegetables if you prefer. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding to the casserole.
You can substitute cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce for the cream of mushroom soup in this recipe.
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
You can use vegetarian ground beef crumbles or lentils as a substitute for the ground beef in this recipe to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Helpful Tips:
- Add a sprinkle of paprika to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.
- Try adding Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the meat mixture for added depth of flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Expert Secrets:
- Season each component of the dish separately for well-balanced flavor throughout.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use a piping bag to create a decorative pattern with the mashed potatoes on top of the casserole.
- Try adding a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for a richer taste.
- For a healthier version, swap out the mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower or sweet potatoes.