Beef and Mushroom Shepherd’s Pie with Cheddar Mash

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup beef broth
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat.
3. 3 Add onion, garlic, and carrot to the skillet, cooking until softened.
4. 4 Stir in mushrooms, tomato paste, thyme, and smoked paprika, cooking until mushrooms release their moisture.
5. 5 Pour in beef broth, bring to a simmer, and add peas. Cook until heated through.
6. 6 Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, cheddar, salt, and pepper.
7. 7 Transfer beef mixture to a greased baking dish and top with mashed potatoes.
8. 8 Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until bubbly and top is golden.
9. 9 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Potato masher

Variations

• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Add a layer of sliced sweet potatoes for a colorful twist.

Substitutions

• Use button mushrooms if cremini are unavailable.
• Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon.
• A cold lager complements the hearty flavors nicely.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra richness, use a mix of milk and cream for mashing potatoes.
• Make ahead and refrigerate uncovered overnight before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in a 350°F oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
• A splash of tangy pickle on the side cuts through the richness.

FAQ