Description
Loaded Shepherd’s Pie with Bacon & Cheese
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or ground lamb
1 small onion, diced
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup diced carrots
2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Meat: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned.
Add Veggies & Sauce: Stir in peas, carrots, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Layer the Dish: Spread the meat mixture evenly in a casserole dish. Top with a layer of mashed potatoes, spreading it out smoothly.
Add the Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy a cozy, comforting meal!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pie. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: dice the onion and carrots, cook and crumble the bacon, and have your mashed potatoes ready. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet or a separate frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat for a less greasy result.
Next, stir in the frozen peas, diced carrots, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the vegetables begin to soften. Season generously with salt and pepper. If using a separate pan, now transfer this meat mixture to a greased 9×9 inch or similar casserole dish.
Carefully spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat layer. Using a fork or spatula, spread them into an even seal, ensuring the meat is fully covered. For a decorative touch, create swirls or peaks with a fork. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, followed by the crumbled bacon. Bake on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling at the edges. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pie is a complete meal on its own. For a balanced plate, serve it with a simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty bread or garlic knots are perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce. It pairs wonderfully with a robust red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec. For a family-style dinner, serve it directly from the casserole dish at the table.
How-to Summary
Brown beef with onions, simmer with veggies and broth. Layer in dish: meat first, then mashed potatoes. Top with cheese and bacon. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Rest before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this shepherd’s pie ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground lamb is the traditional choice. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well, but consider using a richer broth or adding herbs for flavor.
My mashed potatoes are too runny. How can I fix this? Ensure your mashed potatoes are thick and stiff by using less milk or cream when making them. Letting the potato layer cool slightly before topping can also help it hold its shape.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes. Cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Is there a way to make this gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your Worcestershire sauce and beef broth are certified gluten-free brands.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not skip letting the pie rest after baking; cutting in too soon causes it to fall apart. Second, ensure your meat mixture is not too watery before layering; simmer it adequately so the sauce thickens. Third, do not use watery or instant mashed potatoes, as they can make the top layer soggy. Finally, avoid over-baking, which can dry out the meat filling and burn the cheese.
Conclusion
This Loaded Shepherd’s Pie with Bacon & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory meat, creamy potatoes, and crispy, cheesy toppings in one dish. It’s straightforward to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common errors and create a flawless, delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the cozy, hearty flavors of this classic, elevated dish.