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Shepherd's pie has long stood as a quintessential comfort food, celebrated for its hearty ingredients and satisfying nature. Traditionally, this dish consists of a flavorful meat filling topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes. It's a dish that evokes warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of home, making it a beloved staple in many households. However, as with any classic recipe, there’s always room for innovation. Enter the cheesy twist on shepherd's pie, where rich, melty cheese elevates the already comforting flavors, adding an additional layer of creaminess and depth that transforms this dish into something truly special.

Cheesy Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this cheesy shepherd's pie recipe! This delightful twist on the classic dish features a savory beef filling topped with rich, creamy mashed potatoes infused with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for cozy family dinners, this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also brings loved ones together around the table. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this shepherd's pie is sure to create lasting memories and warm your heart.

Ingredients
  

For the beef mixture:

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup carrots, diced

1 cup frozen peas

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup beef broth

For the cheesy mashed potatoes:

2 lbs (900g) russet potatoes, peeled and diced

1/2 cup (120ml) milk

1/4 cup (60g) butter

1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

      Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

        Flavor it Up: Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to blend flavors.

          Simmer with Broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Allow to cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the frozen peas and remove from heat.

            Make the Mashed Potatoes: While the beef mixture is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain the potatoes.

              Mash and Mix: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add the milk, butter, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

                Assemble the Pie: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly. Top with the cheesy mashed potatoes, spreading them out to cover the beef completely. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

                  Bake: Place the assembled shepherd's pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                    Garnish and Serve: Remove the shepherd’s pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6