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Ingredients:
2 lbs hamburger meat
Brown gravy
Corn (leftover from earlier this week)
Mashed potatoes (leftovers from earlier this week)
Shredded cheese
Instructions:
Brown the Hamburger Meat:
In a skillet, brown the 2 lbs of hamburger meat over medium heat. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease.
Prepare Brown Gravy:
Follow the instructions on the packet or jar to prepare brown gravy. You can use store-bought gravy mix or prepare it from scratch.
Combine Hamburger Meat and Gravy:
Add the cooked hamburger meat to the prepared brown gravy. Stir well to combine, creating a flavorful meat and gravy mixture.
Warm Up Potatoes and Corn:
If you have leftovers of mashed potatoes and corn from earlier in the week, warm them up. Alternatively, you can prepare fresh mashed potatoes and corn if needed.
Layering:
On a plate, start by layering the bottom with the meat and gravy mixture, creating an even layer.
Next, add a layer of warmed corn over the meat and gravy.
Follow it up with a layer of mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly over the corn.
Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top of the mashed potatoes. The cheese will melt and form a delicious golden crust when baked.
Bake (Optional):
If you prefer a baked Shepherd’s Pie with a golden crust, you can place the assembled dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked (if you choose to do so) or assembled, serve the Shepherd’s Pie hot. Enjoy the layers of savory meat, gravy, vegetables, and cheesy mashed potatoes.
This easy and hearty Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish that makes great use of leftovers and provides a satisfying meal for the family. Enjoy!
Questions and their answers related to Shepherd’s Pie
Q: What is Shepherd’s Pie?
A: Shepherd’s Pie is a classic British dish traditionally made with minced or ground lamb (hence the name “shepherd”), cooked in a savory gravy with vegetables, topped with mashed potatoes, and baked until golden.
Q: Can I use ground beef instead of lamb in Shepherd’s Pie?
A: Yes, you can. When made with ground beef, the dish is often referred to as “Cottage Pie.” The term Shepherd’s Pie is typically reserved for versions made with lamb.
Q: What are the key components of Shepherd’s Pie?
A: The main components are minced or ground meat (traditionally lamb), vegetables (commonly peas and carrots), a savory gravy, and a mashed potato topping.
Q: Can I make Shepherd’s Pie with leftover mashed potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Using leftover mashed potatoes is a convenient way to make Shepherd’s Pie. Simply reheat or spread them over the meat and vegetable filling.
Q: How do I achieve a golden crust on top of Shepherd’s Pie?
A: To achieve a golden crust, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking. Place the dish in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Q: Can Shepherd’s Pie be made in advance?
A: Yes, Shepherd’s Pie can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Bake it just before serving to ensure a fresh, hot dish.
Q: What sides pair well with Shepherd’s Pie?
A: Common sides include a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Q: Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie for later?
A: Yes, Shepherd’s Pie freezes well. Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw and bake until heated through.
Q: Are there variations of Shepherd’s Pie?
A: Yes, there are many variations. Some incorporate different seasonings, additional vegetables, or unique twists on the classic recipe.
Q: What’s the difference between Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie?
A: The main difference is the type of meat used. Shepherd’s Pie traditionally uses lamb, while Cottage Pie is made with minced or ground beef.
Enjoy making and savoring this comforting dish!
