Get ready to indulge in a comforting classic that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds! This Cheddar Topped Shepherd's Pie is not just any ordinary dish; it's a delightful blend of savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all crowned with a golden layer of melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this British favorite is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. With just a little prep and a dash of love, you can create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Are you ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into the delicious details of this recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: British
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, 2 cups of mashed potatoes, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of beef broth, salt and pepper to taste, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the shepherd's pie.
- In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the diced carrots to the skillet and continue to sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the carrots start to soften.
- Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the beef is browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary. Then, pour in the beef broth and stir to combine. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the beef and vegetable mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the broth reduce slightly.
- While the beef mixture is simmering, prepare your mashed potatoes if they are not already ready. You can use store-bought or homemade mashed potatoes for this recipe.
- Once the beef mixture is ready, transfer it into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom.
- Carefully spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture, spreading them out evenly to cover the entire surface. Use a fork to create a textured pattern on top of the mashed potatoes, which will help them crisp up during baking.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mashed potatoes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the mashed potatoes are golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the shepherd's pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious Cheddar Topped Shepherd's Pie!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, consider preparing your mashed potatoes in advance. You can even use leftover mashed potatoes from a previous meal for added convenience!
- Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to add herbs and spices such as thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Texture Matters: When spreading the mashed potatoes on top, use a fork to create peaks and valleys. This will not only look appealing but also help achieve a crispy texture when baked.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Feel free to mix different types of cheese! A blend of cheddar and mozzarella can add a delightful stretchiness and flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your shepherd's pie with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that’s both hearty and nutritious.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or use the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
