Are you craving a comforting, classic dish with a vibrant, unexpected twist? Then get ready to fall in love with our Shepherd's Pie with Corn recipe! This hearty, healthy meal takes the beloved comfort food and adds a burst of sunshine with sweet corn, creating a delicious and satisfying dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, delivering delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. It's one of those best recipes you'll want to keep coming back to.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (or lamb, for a more traditional feel)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
For the Topping:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This simple step ensures your shepherd's pie cooks evenly.
Prepare the 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. This builds a delicious base of flavor.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, diced tomatoes, corn, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Make the Mashed Potato Topping:
- While the filling simmers, boil the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Return the potatoes to the pot and mash with milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra fluffy mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer!
Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the beef and corn mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Tips for the Best Shepherd's Pie:
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will be gummy. Aim for tender but not mushy.
- Season generously: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. A little extra salt and pepper can make a big difference.
- Use fresh herbs if possible: Fresh thyme and rosemary will add a more vibrant flavor to the filling.
- For a richer flavor: Use lamb instead of beef.
- Add some cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking for extra cheesy goodness.
Variations:
- Spicy Shepherd's Pie: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling for a kick.
- Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a meat-free option.
- Sweet Potato Topping: Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a naturally sweeter and more vibrant topping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Shepherd's Pie with Corn recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that doesn't compromise on flavor or nutrition. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Enjoy!