Why Make This Recipe
Joanna Gaines’ Famous Shepherd’s Pie is not just any ordinary dish; it’s a comforting meal that brings warmth to your table. Shepherd’s Pie is a classic recipe that features layers of savory meat, vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night at home. The best part is that it’s simple to make and can easily please everyone, from kids to adults. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a favorite in many homes.
How to Make Joanna Gaines’ Famous Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 6 tbsp butter
- 0.5 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Potatoes: Start by boiling the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Cook them for about 15–20 minutes until they are tender. You can test them by poking with a fork. Once they are soft, drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Mash them together with the butter and heavy cream until fluffy. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped yellow onion. Cook until the meat is browned, about 8–10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Then add the diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes or until the carrots are slightly softened.
Thicken the Mixture: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir for about 1 minute. This helps to thicken it. Gradually pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder while stirring continuously. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens, then gently fold in the frozen peas.
Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet and transfer the beef filling into it. Spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Use a spoon or spatula to create rustic swirls on the surface for a nice appearance.
Bake the Pie: Place the assembled Shepherd’s Pie in the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until you see it bubbling at the edges and the top is lightly golden. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Joanna Gaines’ Famous Shepherd’s Pie
This comforting dish is best served hot. You can scoop generous portions onto plates and add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a touch of color and flavor. Shepherd’s Pie pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with crusty bread for some extra texture.
How to Store Joanna Gaines’ Famous Shepherd’s Pie
If you have leftovers, that’s great! Shepherd’s Pie can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can also portion it into smaller containers for easy reheating.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake it in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Joanna Gaines’ Famous Shepherd’s Pie
- Quality Beef: Use lean ground beef but avoid extra-lean, as a bit of fat adds flavor and richness to the filling.
- Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning the mashed potatoes. A good amount of salt and pepper will enhance their flavor tremendously.
- Potato Consistency: If you like your mashed potatoes creamier, add more heavy cream or whole milk. If you prefer them thicker, reduce the amount of cream added.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like corn or green beans if you prefer them over peas.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your mixture before assembling the pie. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Variation
While this recipe follows tradition, you can easily modify it. For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a unique twist and added nutrition. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with lentils, mushrooms, and assorted vegetables.
FAQs
Can I make Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and the mashed potatoes ahead of time. Layer them in the baking dish and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?
Absolutely! Shepherd’s Pie freezes well. Just cover it tightly, and it can last up to three months in the freezer.
How do I know when the Shepherd’s Pie is done cooking?
You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling, and the top is golden brown. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out hot, it’s ready to eat!
Joanna Gaines’ Famous Shepherd’s Pie is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together. The warmth of the filling and the fluffiness of the mashed potatoes come together for a dish that’s not only delicious but also a reminder of home. Whether you’re making it for a loved one or enjoying it as a cozy treat for yourself, this Shepherd’s Pie will surely be a hit!
Print
Joanna Gaines’ Famous Shepherd’s Pie
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and hearty Shepherd’s Pie featuring layers of savory meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 6 tbsp butter
- 0.5 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Mash with butter and heavy cream, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Cook the meat and vegetables: In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned. Add diced carrots and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Thicken the mixture: Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder, stirring until thick. Fold in peas.
- Assemble the pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer beef filling to a baking dish and spread mashed potatoes on top.
- Bake the pie: Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve hot, topped with fresh herbs. Pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg