This Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy dish that brings warmth to your table. It’s filled with tasty ground meat and mixed veggies, all topped with crispy hash browns!
Honestly, the crunchy top is what makes it super fun! I usually have seconds because it’s just too good. Who can resist that golden crust, right? 😋
Making it is a breeze – just layer everything, bake, and enjoy! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Both options work well, but I usually use ground beef for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes!
Onion: A medium onion is key for flavor. If you’re short on time, shallots can be a nice alternative; they’re a bit milder but still tasty.
Carrots: Diced carrots add color and sweetness. You can swap them out for other vegetables like bell peppers or even zucchini for a healthier twist.
Frozen Peas: These are convenient and add a nice pop of color. If you don’t have peas, corn or green beans could easily be used instead.
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns are super easy to use. For a homemade touch, you can grate fresh potatoes, but make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to keep it crispy.
Cheddar Cheese: I love adding cheddar for flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you could try a vegan cheese or simply leave it out for a lighter version!
How Do You Ensure the Hash Browns Get Crispy?
Getting those hash browns to be perfectly crispy is all about technique! Follow these steps for the best outcome:
- Make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture from fresh potatoes if using them. This helps them crisp up in the oven.
- Mix the hash browns with melted butter and a touch of salt; this not only adds flavor but also helps them brown nicely.
- When spreading the hash browns on top, don’t press them down too hard. A gentle press allows for air to circulate, promoting crispiness.
- Bake until golden brown, keeping an eye on it as ovens may vary. Allow your shepherd’s pie to cool a bit before serving; this helps the layers set.
How to Make Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Cooking:
- Olive oil, for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes in the oven. In total, you should set aside about 45 minutes to create this cozy meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This prepares the oven for perfectly cooking the dish later on.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, pour a splash of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. This step builds the base for delicious flavor!
3. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Cook it until it is nicely browned, breaking it into small pieces. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off for a leaner filling.
4. Add the Veggies:
Stir in the diced carrots and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. This will add sweetness and color to your pie.
5. Season the Mixture:
Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, optional rosemary, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together well.
6. Create the Filling:
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will create a delightful filling that brings all the flavors together.
7. Add Peas and Finish the Filling:
Now, stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes before removing the skillet from the heat. Your filling is now ready!
8. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or a drizzle of olive oil. Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
9. Prepare the Hash Brown Topping:
In a bowl, toss the frozen hash browns with the melted butter and a pinch of salt. This will help them crisp up while baking!
10. Layer the Hash Browns:
Spread the hash browns evenly over the meat mixture, gently pressing down to create a compact layer on top.
11. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’d like some extra richness, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top layer of hash browns.
12. Bake the Pie:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the hash browns to turn golden brown and get crispy on top.
13. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the shepherd’s pie from the oven and garnish with fresh or dried thyme. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
14. Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy this comforting and crispy twist on the classic shepherd’s pie with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative, giving you the same delicious flavor but with fewer calories. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until browned.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with lentils or chopped mushrooms. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for extra flavor!
Can I Freeze the Leftover Shepherd’s Pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze leftovers, let the pie cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry, to keep it moist and delicious.
