Easy Mini Shepherds Pies
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Create a cozy and delicious meal with these Easy Mini Shepherds Pies! Packed with savory ground meat and vegetables, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes, these adorable mini pies are perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to become a household favorite.
These Easy Mini Shepherds Pies are a delightful choice for a comforting meal. The combination of tender ground meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a dish that everyone will love.
A Comfort Food Classic
Shepherd's pie is a timeless dish that has comforted many through stormy winter nights and family gatherings. The combination of savory meat and vibrant vegetables creates a rich, hearty filling that warms the soul. Topped with fluffy mashed potatoes, this dish not only looks appealing but also delivers a delightful contrast in textures. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, mini shepherd's pies are sure to satisfy everyone's cravings.
These Easy Mini Shepherds Pies take the classic recipe and put a charming twist on it. By serving them in individual portions, you can easily cater to everyone’s preferences. They are a hit with both kids and adults alike, making them perfect for parties or casual family meals. Plus, they are an excellent way to use up leftovers or get creative with whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best aspects of these mini shepherd's pies is how easy they are to prepare. You can make the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick weeknight meal. Simply reheat the filling, whip up your mashed potatoes, and assemble before baking. This not only saves time but also helps you manage your meals in a healthy way.
Additionally, mini shepherd's pies freeze wonderfully. To freeze, assemble the pies in their baking dishes and cover them tightly before placing them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes it easy to have a homemade meal ready at any time, perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
Enjoy your delicious mini pies!
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and carrots, cooking until softened. Stir in the peas, tomato paste, and beef broth, seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain. Mash with milk, butter, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Pies
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the filling in individual baking dishes and top with mashed potatoes. Use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Customization Options
One of the things that makes these mini shepherd's pies so delightful is their versatility. You can easily swap out the ground beef or lamb for turkey or even a meat substitute to make them lighter or more accommodating to dietary preferences. Similarly, feel free to experiment with the vegetables; mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn can add different flavors and textures to the filling.
If you want to add a touch of heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mix. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your family's taste buds or to highlight seasonal ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked to golden perfection, these mini shepherd's pies are ready to be served up as a delightful individual meal. Pair them with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. The lightness of the salad complements the richness of the pies, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Another fantastic way to elevate this dish is by serving it with a dollop of gravy or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme. These garnishes can enhance the flavor and add a beautiful presentation touch to your mini pies, making them even more appetizing.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these mini pies?
Yes, they freeze well. Just assemble them and freeze before baking.
→ What can I use instead of ground meat?
You can substitute ground meat with lentils for a vegetarian version.
Easy Mini Shepherds Pies
Create a cozy and delicious meal with these Easy Mini Shepherds Pies! Packed with savory ground meat and vegetables, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes, these adorable mini pies are perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to become a household favorite.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 mini pies
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
In a skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and carrots, cooking until softened. Stir in the peas, tomato paste, and beef broth, seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain. Mash with milk, butter, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the filling in individual baking dishes and top with mashed potatoes. Use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g