Shepherd's Pie

This is one of those good ol' casserole recipes that never fails. A meal all-in-one, with an extra casserole in the freezer, ready for a busy weeknight. Besides, you can't go wrong with anything that involves mashed potatoes. Just sayin'.

This recipe calls for prepared mashed potatoes. No worries though, I made mine while the meat was cooking and it was all put together in no time. Of course, instant mashed potatoes are an option, but real ones are oh so much better! As a side note, the original recipe was made in an oval baker that is no longer available from Pampered Chef, and I am unsure of it's size. I made my casserole in two 8 x 8 pans and tucked one away in the freezer. You could also use a 9 x 13. Using two 8 x 8 pans or a 9 x 13 results in a somewhat 'thin' casserole, so if you want something thicker, you may try using just one 9 x 9 inch pan. As you can see, this dish is very versatile and forgiving, so don't be afraid to give it a try!

Shepherd's Pie (Print)
from Pampered Chef
Prep: 30 minutes / Bake: 20-30 minutes (depending on thickness)
Yield: 6-8 servings

1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 garlic clove, pressed or minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp pepper
2 cups frozen vegetables (I used frozen peas, frozen corn, and fresh carrots)
12 ounces beef gravy
2-4 cups mashed potatoes (Original recipe says 2...but I need more than that!)
4 ounces mild cheddar cheese, shredded

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a skillet, cook ground meat, onion, and garlic. Drain as needed. Meanwhile, begin to boil the potatoes and prepare as you desire.

2. Add salt, thyme, pepper, vegetables, and gravy. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 mintues, stirring frequently.

3. Spoon into desired baking dish. (Two 8 x 8 pans, one 9 x 13 pan, or one 9 x 9 pan). Top with mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with cheese.

4. Bake for 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness, until heated through.

Nutrition Facts (based on 8 servings): 305 calories, 16 g fat, 650 mg sodium, 3 g fiber

My Review

• Preparation: 4
• This dish takes about one hour start to finish, depending on how efficient you are with preparing the mashed potatoes :)
• Taste: 5
• My husband and I both loved it, and I've got another one in the freezer that we will be eating!
• Cost: 5
• A very cost-friendly meal.
• Clean-up: 3
• I had a skillet, pot, colander, and baking dish.
• Changes
• The vegetables in this casserole can easily be interchanged. As I mentioned in the recipe, I used fresh and frozen vegetables. Use whatever your taste buds enjoy!
• Summary
• Very simple, so delicious, and satisfying. You just can't go wrong with a casserole!