Prepare to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine with the ultimate comfort food mashup that'll have your family begging for seconds! This Easy Shepherd's Pie with Mrs. T's Pierogies is not just another casserole - it's a culinary game-changer that combines the hearty goodness of traditional shepherd's pie with the irresistible comfort of pierogies. Imagine a dish so delicious, it transforms ordinary ground beef and frozen vegetables into a mouthwatering masterpiece that's ready in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package Mrs. T's pierogies
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle for even heating.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains and meat is fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly thawed.
- Pour beef broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the meat and vegetables. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange Mrs. T's pierogies in a single layer on top of the meat mixture, covering the entire surface.
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the pierogies, creating a smooth top layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potato layer, covering completely.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set.
- Serve hot, portioning out equal amounts of the layered pie to each person.
Tips
- For the most flavorful results, use freshly ground beef with a bit of fat content to keep the meat juicy.
- Drain excess fat from the beef to prevent a greasy final dish, but keep just enough to maintain moisture.
- If you want to add extra depth of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
- Use room temperature mashed potatoes for easier spreading and more even coverage.
- For a golden, crispy top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking if you want a more caramelized cheese layer.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set and make serving easier.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep - it reheats beautifully and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey instead of beef and low-fat cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg