Classic Shepherd’s Pie

Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory ground beef with a medley of vegetables, all topped with a fluffy layer of mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish is rich in flavor and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon pepper, divided
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 teaspoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup Heinz Tomato Ketchup
• ¾ cup Heinz® Tomato Juice
• 2 tablespoons Heinz Worcestershire Sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas and carrots)
• 3 cups cooked, warm, mashed potatoes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ⅔ cup warm milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and half of the salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often, for 5 to 7 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned all over. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir well to combine.
• Add the Heinz Tomato Ketchup, Heinz Tomato Juice, Heinz Worcestershire Sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
• Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for an additional minute. Transfer the beef mixture to a 9-inch baking dish.

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

• In a large bowl, whip the warm mashed potatoes with the warm milk, remaining salt and pepper, butter, and minced garlic until very fluffy.

1. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:

• Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish.

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown on top.

Recipe Tips:

• Meatless Version: For a vegetarian alternative, substitute 4 cups of chopped mushrooms for the ground beef.
• Pub-Style Variation: For a traditional pub-style shepherd’s pie, use ground lamb instead of beef. Create a classic look by marking the mashed potatoes with the tines of a fork before baking.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. If baking from the refrigerator, increase the cooking time to 45 minutes to ensure it is heated through.

Enjoy this delicious and classic shepherd’s pie, perfect for a warm, comforting meal!