Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, delicious, and surprisingly healthy meal that the whole family will love? Then look no further! This Ham Shepherd's Pie recipe is a twist on a classic comfort food, offering a delightful blend of savory ham, tender vegetables, and a fluffy mashed potato topping. It’s a perfect example of easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or satisfaction. This quick dinner idea is ideal for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
For the Ham and Vegetable Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 pound cooked ham, diced (leftover ham works perfectly!)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ½ cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Ham and Vegetable Filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced ham, peas, and corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the ham and vegetables.
- Add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Making the Mashed Potato Topping:
- Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Return the potatoes to the pot and mash thoroughly.
- Gradually add the milk (or cream) and butter, mashing until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling and Baking the Shepherd's Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the ham and vegetable filling into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the filling. You can use a fork to create a slightly textured surface if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are lightly browned and the filling is bubbly.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the ham and vegetable filling.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to substitute other vegetables like mushrooms, green beans, or bell peppers.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the filling for a little kick.
- Leftovers are a treat!: This shepherd’s pie reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious Ham Shepherd's Pie recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are both simple and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion! We hope you love this recipe as much as we do! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!