Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese. This hearty and flavorful meal is perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef, browned and seasoned
• 2 cups hot mashed potatoes
• 1/2 package cream cheese (4 ounces)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups frozen vegetables, thawed
• 1 cup beef gravy

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the hot mashed potatoes, cream cheese, minced garlic, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
3. Prepare Meat and Vegetable Mixture:
   In another mixing bowl, mix together the browned and seasoned ground beef, thawed mixed vegetables, and beef gravy until evenly combined.
4. Assemble Shepherd’s Pie:
   Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly into a 9×9-inch square baking dish. Then, layer the mashed potato mixture over the top, covering the meat and vegetables completely.
5. Add Cheese Topping:
   Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes.
6. Bake:
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   Once baked, remove the Shepherd’s Pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips and Substitutions:

• Potatoes: Feel free to use your favorite type of potatoes, such as red potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes. Instant mashed potatoes or pre-made mashed potatoes from the store can also be used for convenience.
• Meat: While ground beef is traditional, you can also use ground lamb for a classic Shepherd’s Pie flavor. Leftover pot roast can also be a delicious alternative.
• Veggies: Experiment with different vegetables according to your preference. Mushrooms can be a tasty addition, and you can use fresh veggies instead of frozen ones if desired.
• Cheese: For extra cheesiness, add shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the top of the mashed potatoes before baking. You can also customize by adding cheese to only a portion of the dish based on preferences.