Fiery Mexican Shepherd's Pie
Elevate your dinner experience with this fiery Mexican twist on the classic shepherd's pie. Using rich, savory ground beef combined with zesty taco seasoning, vibrant corn, and tangy olives, this dish bursts with flavor. Topped with creamy mashed potatoes and a generous sprinkle of melted cheddar cheese, it’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you're using up leftover homemade mashed potatoes or opting for instant ones, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Serve with a fresh salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Instant mashed potatoes
1 (6 5/8 ounce) package (Prepare according to package directions or substitute with 4 1/2 cups of leftover real mashed potatoes.)
Ground beef
1 lb (Cook until browned.)
Onion
1 (Chopped.)
Diced tomatoes
1 (14 ounce) can (Undrained.)
Mexicorn
1 (11 ounce) can (Drained.)
Ripe olives
1 (2 1/4 ounce) can (Sliced and drained.)
Taco seasoning
1 (1 ounce) envelope (None.)
Chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons (None.)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (None.)
Garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon (None.)
Cheddar cheese
1 cup (Shredded, divided.)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
If using leftover mashed potatoes, ensure they are warmed; if preparing instant mashed potatoes, follow package directions to make 4 1/2 cups.
3
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is browned and thoroughly cooked. Drain any excess fat.
4
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), drained mexicorn, drained sliced olives, taco seasoning, chili powder, salt, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes while stirring occasionally.
6
Transfer the beef mixture into a greased 2 1/2 quart baking dish. Sprinkle 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meat mixture.
7
Gently spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cheese layer, ensuring a good coverage.
8
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
10
Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fiery Mexican Shepherd's Pie?
It is a Mexican-inspired version of the traditional shepherd's pie featuring ground beef seasoned with taco spices, corn, olives, and a cheesy mashed potato topping.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of ground beef.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute the instant potatoes with 4 1/2 cups of leftover real mashed potatoes.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the Shepherd's Pie need to bake?
It should bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
What size baking dish is required?
A 2 1/2 quart baking dish is recommended.
Should I drain the diced tomatoes?
No, the diced tomatoes should be used undrained with their juices.
Which cheese is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically recommends shredded cheddar cheese.
What spices provide the 'fiery' flavor?
The heat comes from a combination of taco seasoning and 1 1/2 teaspoons of chili powder.
Do I need to cook the onions separately?
No, the chopped onion is cooked together with the ground beef until the meat is browned.
How much taco seasoning is used?
One 1-ounce envelope of taco seasoning is used for the meat mixture.
Should the Mexicorn be drained?
Yes, the Mexicorn should be drained before being added to the skillet.
How do I layer the cheese in this dish?
The cheese is divided: 3/4 cup is sprinkled over the meat mixture, and the remaining 1/4 cup is sprinkled on top of the mashed potatoes.
What type of olives are included?
The recipe uses one 2 1/4 ounce can of sliced and drained ripe olives.
Is there garlic in this recipe?
Yes, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder is included in the seasoning blend.
Do I need to simmer the beef mixture?
Yes, after adding all ingredients and bringing to a boil, you should let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes.
How much salt is added?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, the recipe suggests one 6 5/8 ounce package of instant mashed potatoes.
Should I drain the fat from the beef?
Yes, you should drain any excess fat after browning the ground beef and onions.
Is this a good recipe for family dinners?
Yes, it is tagged as a family dinner and a comfort food dish that is easy to prepare.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 main ingredients used in this dish.
Should the potatoes be spread evenly?
Yes, gently spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cheese and meat layer to ensure full coverage.
What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh salad is recommended to complement the savory and spicy flavors of the pie.
Does the recipe require real garlic?
No, it uses garlic powder for convenience and consistent flavor.
Can I make this if I have leftover potatoes?
Absolutely, it is a great way to use up 4 1/2 cups of leftover homemade mashed potatoes.
What is the total cheese amount?
The recipe uses 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese in total.
Why let the dish sit after baking?
Letting it sit for a few minutes helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
Is this recipe considered spicy?
Yes, it is tagged as 'spicy' and 'fiery' due to the Mexican spices used.
What size is the tomato can?
A 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes is required.
How much chili powder is in the pie?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 teaspoons of chili powder.