Welcome to a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Britain! This delightful recipe for Shepherd's Pie with Rutabaga and Parsnip Soup is not just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a chilly evening. Imagine tender ground meat enveloped in a rich, savory broth, topped with a creamy layer of mashed rutabaga and parsnips that add a delightful twist to this classic dish. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees satisfaction with every bite. Ready to elevate your weeknight meals? Let’s dive into the details of creating this comforting masterpiece!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground meat (beef or lamb)
- 2 cups mashed rutabaga
- 1 cup mashed parsnips
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large baking dish for the shepherd's pie.
- In a large skillet, sauté diced onions and carrots over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add ground meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes.
- Pour vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the meat mixture for 10-12 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.
- While the meat is cooking, prepare the mashed rutabaga and parsnips. Boil the vegetables in salted water until tender, then drain and mash until smooth, adding a little butter or cream if desired.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Carefully spread the mashed rutabaga and parsnip mixture over the meat, creating a smooth, even layer that completely covers the meat.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the pie to set.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Tips
- Choose Your Meat Wisely: While traditional Shepherd's Pie is made with lamb, using ground beef offers a delicious variation. Opt for a mix of both for a unique flavor profile.
- Perfect Your Mash: For the smoothest mashed rutabaga and parsnips, ensure they are boiled until fork-tender. Adding a touch of cream or butter will enhance the richness and make the mash irresistible.
- Layering is Key: When assembling your Shepherd's Pie, make sure to spread the mashed vegetables evenly over the meat to create a beautiful, golden crust as it bakes.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time to brown the meat properly; this step adds depth to the flavor. A little patience goes a long way in achieving that perfect savory taste.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the pie to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only adds color but also a fresh burst of flavor that complements the rich pie beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
