Creamy Shepherd's Pie with Crispy Potato Topping
Indulge in this delightful twist on the classic Shepherd's Pie, featuring a hearty beef filling topped with creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes. The combination of sautéed vegetables and rich beef creates a savory base, while the buttery mashed potatoes are baked to a perfect golden crust. This dish is not only satisfying but also makes for a wonderful one-pan meal that the whole family will enjoy. Throw in some canned mushrooms for added flavor, if desired. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this casserole is a must-try!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
russet potatoes
4 medium (peeled, sliced, and cooked)
lean ground beef
2 lbs (browned)
butter
4 tablespoons (divided)
onion
1 large (chopped)
garlic
1 tablespoon (minced (or to taste))
red bell pepper
1 (seeded and chopped)
green bell pepper
1 (seeded and chopped)
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (grated (optional))
salt
to taste (seasoned salt recommended)
black pepper
to taste
cooking sherry
2-4 tablespoons ((or red wine))
fresh parsley
1/4 cup (chopped)
milk
1/4 cup ((or whipping cream or buttermilk))
Swiss cheese
1/2 cup (shredded)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-1/2 quart baking dish with butter.
2
In a heavy skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3
Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper into the skillet. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4
Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoned salt, black pepper, cooking sherry (or red wine), and chopped parsley. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5
Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
6
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked, sliced potatoes, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
7
Carefully spread the creamy potato mixture over the beef layer, ensuring all edges are covered to prevent burning.
8
Top the casserole with shredded Swiss cheese (or additional Parmesan cheese for a different flavor).
9
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving, then enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein in this Shepherd's Pie recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of lean ground beef as the primary protein.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
The recipe specifies using 4 medium russet potatoes, which should be peeled, sliced, and cooked.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the Shepherd's Pie need to bake?
The casserole should be baked uncovered for 25-30 minutes.
What type of cheese is used for the topping?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of shredded Swiss cheese, or you can use additional Parmesan cheese.
Can I substitute the cooking sherry?
Yes, you can use red wine as a substitute for the cooking sherry.
Which vegetables are included in the beef filling?
The filling includes a large onion, minced garlic, one red bell pepper, and one green bell pepper.
How much butter is required for this recipe?
A total of 4 tablespoons of butter is used, divided between the skillet and the mashed potatoes.
What can I use instead of milk for the mashed potatoes?
You can substitute milk with whipping cream or buttermilk for the potato topping.
Is the beef cooked before being placed in the casserole dish?
Yes, the ground beef is browned in a skillet and excess fat is drained before mixing with vegetables.
What size baking dish is needed?
A 2-1/2 quart baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
How do I prepare the baking dish?
The baking dish should be greased with butter before adding the ingredients.
Are there any optional ingredients I can add for extra flavor?
Yes, the description suggests throwing in some canned mushrooms for added flavor if desired.
What kind of salt is recommended for seasoning?
The recipe suggests using seasoned salt for better flavor.
How much Parmesan cheese is used in the beef mixture?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
How long should I sauté the vegetables?
Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened.
How do I ensure the potatoes don't burn?
Ensure the creamy potato mixture covers all the edges of the beef layer to prevent burning.
Should the casserole be covered while baking?
No, the dish should be baked uncovered to allow the potatoes to become golden brown and the cheese to bubble.
What herbs are used in this dish?
The recipe includes 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley.
Can this recipe be used for meal prep?
Yes, this casserole is described as perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe suggests 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, or to taste.
How many servings does this recipe make?
While specific serving numbers aren't listed, it uses 2 lbs of beef and 4 potatoes, making it a hearty family meal.
When do I add the cooking sherry?
Incorporate the cooking sherry along with the cheese and seasonings after the vegetables have softened.
How should the potatoes be mashed?
Combine the cooked potatoes with 2 tablespoons of butter and milk, and mash until smooth and creamy.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish.
Should I drain the beef after browning?
Yes, you should drain any excess fat after browning the lean ground beef.
What is the final step before serving?
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
What gives the topping its 'crispy' quality?
Baking the buttery mashed potatoes and shredded cheese until golden brown creates the crispy topping.
Can I use different colored bell peppers?
The recipe specifies one red and one green bell pepper, but you can likely use any color you prefer.
What is the texture of the finished potato topping?
The topping is intended to be creamy and fluffy on the inside with a golden crust on top.