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Easy Shepherd’s Pie
When it comes to comfort food, Shepherd’s Pie is a classic. The best part about this recipe is that there is no need to let it simmer extensively on the stove top like most Shepherd’s Pie recipes. Even 30 minutes of simmering can be a bit much during a busy weeknight. Most recipes also call for up to 2 lbs. of ground beef, which is a bit much if you have a family of four. This one conveniently calls for just 1 lb. of ground beef, frozen vegetables, and some pantry-friendly items to add amazing flavor to the filling!
Shepherd’s Pie vs. Cottage Pie
Shepherd’s Pie originated in 1849 and contained sliced meat as opposed to minced. It’s important to note that the type of meat in the original dish (beef, lamb, etc.) was not specified. It’s signature characteristic was sliced meat topped with mashed potatoes and baked. The dish has since evolved to include different varieties of minced meat, those varieties depend greatly on the region it’s being prepared in. Countries outside of the US commonly prepare Shepherds Pie with lamb, while the US often prepares it with ground beef. While Cottage Pie is used to describe this dish as being prepared with ground beef, it’s also common to hear it referred to as Shepherd’s Pie in the US. Per Wikipedia: “Shepherd’s pie, cottage pie, or hachis Parmentier is a ground meat pie with a crust or topping of mashed potato of English origin. The recipe has many variations, but the defining ingredients are ground red meat cooked in a gravy or sauce with onions, and topped with a layer of mashed potato before it is baked”
The Broil Method
To keep your filling nice and juicy and the potatoes super creamy, simply broil the potatoes for about 5 minutes prior to serving in order to achieve the classic browned crust we all know and love.
Using Store-Bought or Instant Potatoes
If you’re not up for making homemade mashed potatoes, 3 cups of store bought or instant mashed potatoes may be used for an easy shortcut!
Make-Ahead Method
1-2 Days Ahead: Store in Refrigerator
Prepare as outlined. Let it cool, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. When ready to serve, cover and bake in a 350° oven for 40 minutes. Remove the cover and broil at 550° for about 5 minutes.
1-2 Months Ahead: Store in Freezer
Prepare as outlined. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze. When ready to serve, let it thaw overnight, then cover and bake in a 350° oven for 30 minutes. Remove the cover and broil. OR, cover and bake the frozen pie at 350° oven for 1 hour. Remove the cover and broil.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350° oven or in the microwave. Leftovers also make a great freezer food.
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