Savory Shepherd's Delight
This comforting Shepherd's Pie is a delightful blend of savory meat, hearty vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. Born from a desire to create a hearty meal, this recipe combines ground beef or tender lamb with breakfast sausage for an added punch of flavor. The generous use of onions and garlic enhances the base, and a medley of vegetables including peas and corn add texture and sweetness. Topped with a fluffy layer of mashed potatoes, which can be piped on for an elegant touch, and optionally finished with a sprinkle of cheese for a deliciously golden crust, this Shepherd's Pie is the perfect family meal that will leave everyone returning for seconds. Serve it hot, and savor the love and warmth in every bite!
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground beef or lamb
1 lb (browned and crumbled)
breakfast sausage
1/2 lb (browned)
onion
1/2 cup (diced (increase if desired))
garlic cloves
2-4 (minced (adjust to taste))
butter
2 tablespoons (melted)
brown gravy mix
1 (7/8 ounce) package (mixed with water)
water
1 cup + 1/4 cup (for gravy and rinsing can)
cream of mushroom soup
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can (combined with meat mixture)
sliced mushrooms
1 (6 1/2 ounce) can (diced and added)
corn
1 cup (drained)
peas
1 cup (drained)
parsley
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
oregano
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
mashed potatoes
3 cups (prepared to your liking)
cheese (optional)
to taste (shredded for topping)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2
Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
3
Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef and breakfast sausage. Cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon, about 8-10 minutes.
4
Sprinkle in the brown gravy mix and stir in 1 cup of water, cooking until the mixture has thickened, around 2-3 minutes.
5
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup along with 1/4 can of water, rinsing the can to get all the cream out.
6
Add the diced mushrooms, corn, peas, parsley, and oregano, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
7
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8
Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9
Prepare your mashed potatoes as desired. Using a large cake decorating tip, pipe the mashed potatoes over the filling to cover it completely.
10
Optional: Sprinkle cheese on top for extra flavor.
11
Bake uncovered for 20-30 minutes, until the potatoes are lightly golden and the filling is bubbly.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Shepherd's Delight?
It is a comforting Shepherd's Pie made with a savory meat blend, hearty vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping.
What types of meat can be used in this recipe?
You can use either ground beef or tender lamb, combined with breakfast sausage for extra flavor.
Why is breakfast sausage included?
The breakfast sausage is added to provide a punch of extra flavor to the savory meat base.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to provide 10 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How long does the Shepherd's Pie need to bake?
Bake the dish uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes until the potatoes are golden and the filling is bubbly.
What size baking dish is needed?
A 9x13 inch baking dish is required for this recipe.
What vegetables are included in the filling?
The filling includes diced onions, garlic, mushrooms, corn, and peas.
Can I add cheese to the topping?
Yes, adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top of the mashed potatoes is an optional way to add more flavor.
How do I make the potato topping look elegant?
You can use a large cake decorating tip to pipe the mashed potatoes over the filling for an elegant finish.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The recipe calls for dried parsley and dried oregano to enhance the savory flavors.
How do I prepare the gravy for the meat mixture?
Sprinkle in a package of brown gravy mix and stir in 1 cup of water, cooking until the mixture thickens.
Why do I need to add water to the soup can?
Using 1/4 can of water helps to rinse the can and ensure all the cream of mushroom soup is utilized.
How long should I saute the onions and garlic?
Saute them in melted butter for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Is it necessary to simmer the filling?
Yes, letting the mixture simmer for 10 to 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld together properly.
Should the meat be browned before adding other ingredients?
Yes, cook the meat and sausage until browned, breaking them apart with a spoon for about 8 to 10 minutes.
How many garlic cloves are recommended?
The recipe suggests 2 to 4 minced garlic cloves, but you can adjust this to your taste.
What is the recommended amount of mashed potatoes?
The recipe requires 3 cups of mashed potatoes prepared to your liking.
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
The recipe specifies a 6.5 ounce can of sliced mushrooms, but you can substitute with fresh diced mushrooms if preferred.
Is the shepherd's pie baked covered or uncovered?
The dish should be baked uncovered to allow the potatoes to become lightly golden.
What type of butter should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of melted butter for sauteing the vegetables.
How much onion is used in the recipe?
It uses 1/2 cup of diced onion, though you can increase the amount if you desire more.
Can the corn and peas be substituted?
While the recipe calls for 1 cup each of corn and peas, you can adjust the vegetable medley to your preference.
How do I know when the pie is finished cooking?
It is ready when the potato topping is lightly golden and the meat and vegetable filling is bubbly.
Is this a good recipe for families?
Yes, it is described as the perfect family meal that is hearty and comforting.
How should I serve this dish?
It is best served hot to fully savor the warmth and blend of flavors.
What is the first step of the recipe?
The first step is to melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
What kind of soup is used in the base?
One 10.5 ounce can of cream of mushroom soup is used to add creaminess to the filling.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and potatoes ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for home cooks.