Shepherd's Pie with a Cheddar Twist
Table of Contents
Alright, let's get stuck in! finding brilliant ground beef meals that are also proper comforting can be a right faff, can't it? i'm talking about shepherd's pie with a cheddar twist.
It's classic comfort food, but with a cheesy boost.
Shepherd's Pie with a Cheddar Twist: Introduction
Fancy a hobo hamburger casserole ? this isn't quite that, but hear me out. this shepherd's pie is proper lush! it's got that comforting, hearty thing going on.
We’ve taken the usual recipe and bunged in loads of cheddar in the mash. think creamy, cheesy depth that's just chef's kiss .
Originating from the british isles, this is one of the best different recipes for ground beef out there.
What’s the story?
Shepherd's pie is british comfort food at its finest, innit? this hobo beef casserole inspired dish is easy to make.
You'll need about 25 minutes for prep and 45 minutes for cooking. so, just over an hour and you're sorted.
It makes about 6 servings. perfect for a family dinner!
Why you'll love this
Honestly, this shepherd's pie is a proper crowd pleaser. looking for ideas for dinner with ground beef ? job done. it’s packed with protein from the beef and vitamins from the veggies.
Plus, cheese makes everything better, doesn't it? this recipe is special because of that cheesy mash. it is a tasty healthy dinner with ground beef option
Next up? We'll dive into what you'll need to make this belter of a Ground Beef Hobo Casserole . Let's go through the ingredients for our Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef .
Right then, let's talk ingredients! honestly, having the right stuff prepped makes cooking so much easier. no one wants to be scrambling mid-recipe, yeah? we're making a shepherd's pie with a cheddar twist, because everything's better with cheese.
I reckon you'll love it.
Ingredients for the Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef!
Right then, for the meaty bit of our ground beef meals , you'll need:
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil to get things sizzlin'.
- 1 large onion, chopped (about 1 cup, 150g). Golden if you can get it.
- 2 carrots, diced (about 1 cup, 120g). Adds a touch of sweetness.
- 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1/2 cup, 60g). For that classic casserole base.
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef. 80/20 blend is prime. Look for a vibrant red color, no gray bits. Trust me. You can also use this ground beef to create Different Recipes For Ground Beef , or even a quick Korean Ground Beef And Rice Bowls .
- 1 tsp (5 ml) dried thyme.
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) dried rosemary. Smells amazing, right?
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) black pepper. Freshly ground if you're fancy!
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) salt. Sea salt for extra flavour, maybe?
- 1 tbsp (7.5g) all-purpose flour. Thickens the sauce up nicely.
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth. Gives it that rich flavour.
- 1/2 cup (75g) frozen peas. Adds a pop of green.
- 1/4 cup (60g) tomato paste.
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce. The secret ingredient! These measurements work really well in Hobo Beef Casserole style, which you can also call Ground Beef Hobo Casserole or just Hobo Hamburger Casserole . So, you can make your own Hobo Casserole Ground Beef And Potatoes !
Seasoning Notes
Honestly, you can adjust the herbs to your liking. essential spice combinations are thyme and rosemary. flavor enhancers and aromatics , a bay leaf added to the broth while simmering makes all the difference.
Quick substitution options , if you don't have rosemary, use italian seasoning.
Get Your Mash On!
For the cheesy mashed potato topping:
- 2 lbs (900g) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered.
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk. Full fat makes it extra creamy.
- 4 tbsp (57g) unsalted butter. Get the good stuff.
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) salt. To taste, of course.
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) black pepper.
- 1 cup (100g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided.
Equipment You'll Need
Don't go mad. You'll need:
- A big skillet or Dutch oven.
- A big pot for boiling the spuds.
- Potato masher, or electric mixer if you're flash.
- A 9x13 inch baking dish. This can be an Ideas For Dinner With Ground Beef if you are creative. And don't be scared to explore Recipes For Dinner With Ground Beef . I like this one because it is an awesome Healthy Dinner With Ground Beef .
That's it. now, you can create awesome hamburger bowl recipes or ground beef bowl recipes when you have the basics.
And it's ground beef bowls healthy , what a deal! this is how you can experiment with rice and beef recipes or korean ground beef recipes , or just explore what to do with ground beef in the kitchen, innit?
Right, let's get cracking! are you looking for different recipes for ground beef ? i've got just the ticket. today, we're making shepherd's pie with a cheddar twist .
It's not just another meal; it's a proper hug in a dish. think of it as the best hobo casserole ground beef , but way posher.
Seriously, this will become one of your go-to ground beef meals .
Shepherd's Pie with a Cheddar Twist: A Proper Dinner
This recipe isn’t just chucking stuff in a pan. it’s about building up flavours for a treat. it's like a classic hobo hamburger casserole , but taken up a notch.
I reckon it’s medium difficulty. prep takes about 25 minutes . cooking is around 45 minutes . this hobo beef casserole serves about 6.
Prep Steps: Sorted!
Before we start cooking, let’s get everything ready. this is what the french blokes call " mise en place ".
Get your onions, carrots, and celery chopped. peel and quarter your potatoes. it will save you a ton of time later, honestly.
- Essential mise en place : Chop all your veggies first. Get your spices measured out. The cheesy potatoes will be a cracking twist.
- Time saving organization tips : While the potatoes are boiling, get cracking with the meat filling. Double jobbing and saving time.
- Safety reminders: Be careful when chopping those veggies, yeah? And don't burn yourself when draining the potatoes.
step-by-step: Get Cooking!
Right, let's get the pans hot!
- Boil the spuds: Get those potatoes in a pot of boiling water. Cook until tender. This takes about 15- 20 minutes .
- Sauté the veg: Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 'em until softened. About 5 minutes should do it.
- Brown the beef: Add that ground beef. Break it up with a spoon. Cook until it's browned all over. Don’t skip draining off the grease.
- Spice it up: Stir in thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and flour. Cook for 1 minute .
- Sauce time: Pour in beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until it thickens up a bit.
- Add the peas: Stir in frozen peas. Cook until they're heated through. Should only take a minute or two.
- Cheesy mash: Mash potatoes with milk, butter, salt, pepper, and half the cheddar. Now that's a mash that makes you glad.
- Assemble & Bake: Spread the meat in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and the other half of cheddar cheese. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes . Or until bubbly and golden.
Pro Tips: Chef's Secrets
Want to make this Shepherd's Pie even better? Here's a few bits of knowledge.
- Expert Technique: Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the beef. Do it in batches. Also, topping a cold filling with hot mash will mean the mash browns before the filling is cooked through.
- Mistake Alert: Overmixing the mashed potatoes will make 'em gluey, no one wants that.
- make-ahead Option: You can make the meat filling a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge. Ideas for dinner with ground beef become easier when prepped like that.
This cheesy shepherd’s pie isn’t just a meal. it’s an experience. it's definitely one of those recipes for dinner with ground beef you will make again and again.
Thinking about what to do with ground beef ? look no further! next time maybe, we'll try korean ground beef and rice bowls or another of those ground beef bowl recipes .
It gives a tasty, quick meal that's hard to beat. what's your favourite recipe with ground beef bowls healthy and easy to prepare? i bet this cheesy shepherd’s pie will be one of them now!
Alright, here's the extra info you requested for our cracking Shepherd's Pie! Let's make this even more appealing.
Recipe Notes for the Best Shepherd's Pie
This shepherd's pie is more than just a meal. it's a hug on a plate! honestly, what's better on a chilly evening? my nan used to make something similar, though hers probably involved more mystery ingredients than this one.
This recipe is a proper crowd pleaser and definitely one of my favourite ground beef meals .
Serving it up Right
Plating and presentation ideas: forget fancy plating! this is comfort food, not a michelin star dish. i like to serve it straight from the baking dish.
A dollop of extra mashed potato is a plus. sprinkling some fresh parsley on top makes it look a bit more fancy pants.
Complementary sides or beverages: a simple green salad cuts through the richness. steamed green beans are a safe bet too.
And a pint of real ale? bang on! or, if you're not feeling boozy, a nice glass of red wine does the trick.
You know? something comforting. this could easily become one of the different recipes for ground beef you prepare!
Storing and Reheating
Refrigeration guidelines: leftovers? if you haven't scoffed it all, pop it in an airtight container. keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
I think you'll agree, this recipe is one of the ideas for dinner with ground beef to make-ahead!
Freezing options (if applicable): freezes like a dream. let it cool completely first. wrap it well (or portion it out).
It'll keep for up to 3 months. ground beef hobo casserole style leftovers are just as awesome!
Reheating instructions: oven is best. reheat at 350° f ( 175° c) until heated through. cover with foil to stop the top from burning.
Microwave works in a pinch, but it can make the potato a bit...sad. the oven works well so you can try recipes for dinner with ground beef like this or a hobo beef casserole .
Variations for Everyone
Dietary adaptations: gluten-free? Easy! Just use gluten-free flour. dairy-free? Swap out the milk and butter in the mash for plant based alternatives. You'll still end up with a brilliant Hobo Hamburger Casserole .
Seasonal ingredient swaps: In the summer, try adding some chopped courgette or bell peppers to the meat filling. Autumn? Butternut squash or sweet potato in the mash is amazing.
Nutrition Basics
Simplified nutrition information: Each serving clocks in around 450 calories. You get a decent hit of protein (30g) from the beef.
Key health benefits: this is a good source of protein and carbs. it's not exactly health food, but it's a balanced meal with some veggies thrown in for good measure.
Plus, it's good for the soul!
So there you have it! my notes on making this the absolute best hobo casserole ground beef you'll ever make.
It is a staple on my table and i am positive you will love it as much as my family and i do.
Don't be scared to experiment and make it your own. get in the kitchen and give it a go! you've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Shepherd's Pie with a Cheddar Twist ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Shepherd's Pie is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble the entire pie, including the cheddar mashed potato topping, and then refrigerate it (covered tightly) for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Think of it as giving the flavours a chance to properly get to know each other - like a good cup of tea needs time to brew!
What's the best way to store leftover ground beef meals like this Shepherd's Pie?
Leftover Shepherd's Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or reheat the entire pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Give it a good check, make sure it's piping hot, before tucking in - safety first, you know!
I'm not a fan of peas. What other vegetables can I use in this ground beef Shepherd's Pie?
No worries, everyone has their preferences! You can easily swap out the peas for other vegetables. Diced green beans, sweetcorn, or even mixed vegetables would work well. Get your greens in - like mum used to say!
If you use vegetables that need longer cooking times (like carrots), you may need to add them earlier in the process.
Can I freeze this Shepherd's Pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze the Shepherd's Pie, let it cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil, or place it in a freezer safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Just bear in mind that the texture of the mashed potato might change slightly after freezing and thawing, but it will still taste delicious!
What kind of ground beef is best for ground beef meals like Shepherd's Pie?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using ground beef with an 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat). The fat adds richness and keeps the beef moist. However, if you prefer a leaner option, you can use 90/10 ground beef, but you might want to add a little extra olive oil while browning to prevent it from drying out.
It’s all about finding that sweet spot for your taste!
Is there a way to make this Shepherd's Pie healthier?
Absolutely! To make this Shepherd's Pie healthier, you can use leaner ground beef (90/10), reduce the amount of butter in the mashed potatoes, and use low-fat milk. You could also add more vegetables to the filling to increase the fiber content.
Swapping out some of the potatoes for cauliflower in the mash is a clever trick for lowering carbs too. Remember, balance is key - a little bit of what you fancy does you good!
Shepherd S Pie With A Cheddar Twist
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 4g |