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Creamy Shepherd’s Pie Recipe with Easy Garlic Herb Mashed Potato Topping

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A comforting and creamy shepherd’s pie featuring a savory ground beef filling topped with a luscious garlic herb mashed potato layer, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (120g) frozen peas and carrots mix (or fresh diced carrots and peas)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or a few sprigs fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 lbs (900g) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping: Peel and cut potatoes into chunks. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, add 4 whole garlic cloves. Bring to a boil and cook 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  2. Drain and Mash: Drain potatoes and garlic, return to pot or mixing bowl. Add softened butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Mash until smooth but fluffy. Stir in parsley and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Cook the Filling: Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Add Aromatics and Veggies: Add diced onion and minced garlic to beef. Cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in peas and carrots, cook 2 more minutes.
  5. Build the Flavor: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Lower heat and simmer 5-7 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning.
  6. Assemble the Pie: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon meat filling into greased baking dish. Spread garlic herb mashed potato topping evenly over filling.
  7. Bake: Bake 20-25 minutes until top is golden and edges bubble. Optional: Broil last 2-3 minutes for crispier top, watching closely.
  8. Rest and Serve: Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving to set layers. Scoop and enjoy.

Notes

Do not over-mash potatoes to avoid gluey texture; leave some lumps for better mouthfeel. Season beef and potatoes separately for balanced flavor. Use fresh herbs for brightness. Drain excess fat but keep some beef broth for moisture. Let pie rest before serving to set layers. Add extra cream if mashed potatoes feel stiff. Broil briefly for crispier topping but watch to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: shepherd's pie, creamy mashed potatoes, garlic herb topping, ground beef recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/creamy-shepherds-pie-recipe-with-easy-garlic-herb-mashed-potato-topping/