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Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Shepherd's Pie Recipe (with Cauliflower!)

When the air gets a chill, I reach for cozy meals like this Shephard's Pie Recipe. This is the perfect recipe for a family, especially if you have picky kiddos. A classic Shepherd's pie is like a hug in a bowl. It's layered with satisfying textures and this recipe even packs some hidden veggies.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Okie Rub
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For Mashed Potatoes
  • 1 lb Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and roughly chopped
  • 1 small head cauliflower, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp The Spice Girl Kitchen Tri-Salt Blend
For Meat Layer

Equipment

  • Dutch Oven OR 7x11 Casserole Dish

Method
 

For The Mashed Potatoes
  1. Add potatoes and cauliflower to a large pot and cover with water and a large pinch of salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain.
  2. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes and cauliflower together. Add in remaining ingredients listed under "for the mashed potatoes" and mash again until everything is well combined and the texture of the mashed potatoes is to your liking. If the potatoes seem dry to your liking, mash in a small splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
For The Meat Layer
  1. Preheat the oven to 400 ℉.
  2. In a large skillet or Dutch Oven over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add in the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until it is no longer pink (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened (about 3-5 minutes). Add the garlic and cook 1 additional minute.
  4. Stir in the Okie Rub, salt, and tomato paste let cook for 1 minute. Pour in the beef broth and deglaze the bottom of the pan by scratching and browned bits.
  5. Add in the Worcestershire Sauce, frozen peas, and additional pepper to taste. Let simmer for 4-5 minutes. (If making this recipe in a skillet and not a Dutch Oven, transfer the meat mixture to a 7x11 casserole dish before proceeding to the next step.)
  6. Add the mashed cauliflower and potatoes to the top a spoonful at a time. Once all the mash is added, smooth with a large spoon. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top of the mash is slightly golden. Garnish with parsley, serve immediately, and enjoy!

Notes

Herbs and Spices
A classic Shepherd's Pie uses herbs like thyme and rosemary. Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and garlic are added to provide a savory and tangy dimension. However, the spices and flavorings are really where you can customize your Shepherd's pie. Today, I will be using my Okie Rub for an added smokey flavor to the meat, but you could also use my Italian blend if you are into more of an earthy and herby flavor!

Store & Reheat

Store

Fridge: Transfer the dish to a large glass storage container with an airtight lid. Allow it to cool to room temperature before securing the lid (about 30-45 minutes). Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Place the dish in the fridge to thaw overnight for best results.

Reheat

Microwave: Place Shepherd's Pie in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and microwave on high for 1-3 minutes or until heated through. If reheating larger amounts, stir halfway through to warm it evenly.*
Stovetop: Not recommended.
Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F
. Place Shepherd's Pie in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and cook for 8-10 minutes.*
*Total time depends on the amount you are reheating.