It’s pure comfort.
The term “casserole” evokes instant feelings of comfort and security for me. This is probably due to the fact that casseroles were frequently served at my family’s dinner table during my upbringing—spanning various dishes like
tuna noodle casserole
to
bubbling lasagna
Although the former was clearly my preferred dish and what I asked for numerous birthdays, my sister loved the shepherd’s pie best.
Whenever we had extra mashed potatoes left over from another meal, she would request that my dad use them to prepare the substantial dish. It’s clear that she isn’t (and still isn’t) alone in feeling this way because our top-rated casserole recipe ever is ours.
shepherd’s pie
With almost 15 million clicks, this recipe has become a favorite among our readers, and rightly so: It perfectly balances simplicity with coziness.
Why Shepherd’s Pie Reigns Supreme as the Ultimate Casserole
If you’re not acquainted with shepherd’s pie, it’s a simple yet comforting meal consisting of minced meat and veggies topped with mashed potatoes. This dish originates from both the UK and Ireland. Traditionally, it includes lamb or mutton (explaining why it’s called “shepherd’s” pie). However, in the US, we typically opt for ground beef instead (a version known as “cottage pie” over there). The USA certainly doesn’t lack variations of this hearty recipe.
casseroles
On Simply Recipes, yet this comforting blend of meat and potatoes surely strikes a chord. It’s simply one of those meals that warms your soul from within.
It’s also great for making ahead: You can assemble the whole casserole up to a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator, or ideally, you can freeze it for up to three months.
How to Improvise with This Recipe
Moreover, shepherd’s pie offers endless possibilities for customization. Below are several ideas to help you put your personal touch on this dish:
- Substitute ground lamb for a version they would surely approve of in the U.K. and Ireland, or opt for ground turkey for a lighter take.
- Although our recipe requires a blend of carrots, corn, and peas, feel free to substitute them with almost any vegetables such as diced green beans, shredded cabbage, or broccoli florets, or simply add some gently cooked leafy greens like spinach.
- Mix shredded cheese such as cheddar, Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or Gouda into the mashed potato mixture to create a cheesier and even more golden-brown crust.
- Begin with leftovers! Reader Rhonda uses diced remaining roast beef along with leftover carrots, celery, and potatoes from her slow-cooker meals to create a delicious shepherd’s pie.
- Include garlic in the ground meat blend for enhanced taste or add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary.
-
Substitute the mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes.
winter squash
, or
cauliflower
. - Patron Marty garnished portions with sour cream and balsamic vinegar. You might as well add ketchup, hot sauce, or robust mustard to the condiment selection at the table.
Get the recipe:
Easy Shepherd’s Pie
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