Main Course

Brisket Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Name: Brisket Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons salted butter; 1 medium red or sweet onion, finely chopped; 3 medium carrots, thinly sliced or diced evenly; 1 small head of broccoli, broken into bite-sized florets; 2 cups frozen vegetable medley; 2 pounds chopped smoked beef brisket; 1 1/2 cups rich beef stock; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor; Mashed Potato Topping:; 2 pounds baby red potatoes, skin-on, quartered; 3 garlic cloves, minced and sautéed in butter for a deeper flavor; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed; 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream; 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 jalapeño, finely diced; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky finish

Glennis Annis January 6, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Brisket shepherd’s pie is a delightful twist on the traditional dish, and it pairs wonderfully with various sides and beverages.

Want to elevate your meal? Consider serving it with a crisp green salad garnished with light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the pie.

Another fantastic option is a serving of buttered garlic bread. The crunchy texture complements the creamy mash on top. A hearty red wine, such as a Malbec or a Cabernet Sauvignon, can bring out the flavors.

If you prefer something lighter, a pale ale or even iced tea pairs nicely. For dessert, a simple berry tart adds a refreshing end to a filling meal.

What is Brisket Shepherd’s Pie?

At its core, brisket shepherd’s pie is a comfort food classic. Traditionally, shepherd’s pie is made with lamb, but in this version, we take rich smoked beef brisket and turn it into a filling.

The base layer features the brisket mixed with vegetables and beef stock, while the top layer is a luscious mashed potato crust. Heat it all in the oven, and you get a crispy topping with a warm and inviting interior.

Why You’ll Love This Brisket Shepherd’s Pie

Let’s face it; there’s magic in combining comforting ingredients. The smoky flavor of brisket adds depth, while the sautéed vegetables bring color and nutrition. Each forkful is packed with flavor.

What makes this dish fantastic is versatility. You can whip it up for a family dinner or serve it at a gathering with friends. Plus, it’s great make-ahead food. Prepare it in advance and bake it when guests arrive. Furthermore, the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as good. You can enjoy it for lunch the next day.

Let’s not forget the texture—creamy potatoes topping a hearty filling creates a satisfying contrast that is hard to resist. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Brisket Shepherd’s Pie

To get started on your brisket shepherd’s pie, gather the following ingredients:

Filling:

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons salted butter
1 medium red or sweet onion, finely chopped
3 medium carrots, thinly sliced or diced evenly
1 small head of broccoli, broken into bite-sized florets
2 cups frozen vegetable medley (corn, peas, green beans)
2 pounds chopped smoked beef brisket
1 1/2 cups rich beef stock
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or 4 tablespoons for thicker gravy)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor

Mashed Potato Topping:

2 pounds baby red potatoes, skin-on, quartered
3 garlic cloves, minced and sautéed in butter for a deeper flavor
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for mild heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky finish

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s translucent. Next, throw in your diced carrots and broccoli florets. These veggies will help create a hearty filling.

Keep cooking for another 7-8 minutes until the vegetables soften. It’s time for the brisket. Add the chopped smoked beef brisket to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Stock and Thicken

Sprinkle the flour over the mixture. The flour will help create a nice gravy. Stir it well, allowing it to coat the brisket and vegetables.

Pour in the beef stock and add Worcestershire sauce. This will enhance the savory notes. Cook on medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently. Remember to stir occasionally!

Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the filling is thickening, put the quartered potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Bring the pot to a boil and then lower the heat to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the sautéed garlic, butter, sour cream, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Use a potato masher to create a creamy consistency. Mix in the jalapeño, cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the brisket filling in a large baking dish. Then, gently spread the mashed potato mixture on top. Use a fork to create some texture—they’ll develop a crunchy crust when baked.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the dish in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the topping becomes golden brown. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Here are some handy tips for creating the best brisket shepherd’s pie:

Use Leftover Brisket: If you have leftover brisket, this recipe is a wonderful way to use it. Just chop it up and substitute it in.
Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies will enhance the dish’s flavor but feel free to use frozen vegetables if time is tight.
Adjust Spices: If you like a spicy kick, add more jalapeño or some red pepper flakes.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk for the potatoes and a dairy-free cheese option if you want to make it vegan.
Top with Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme sprinkled on top before serving can enhance the dish’s aesthetic and flavor.

Storage Tips

This shepherd’s pie can be stored easily. Here’s how:

Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked assembled pie. It can last for up to two months. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
Individual Servings: Portion out leftovers into single servings and freeze them. This makes reheating quick and easy for lunches!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your shepherd’s pie to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are a few suggestions:

Add a Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pie. Crisp greens and crunchy veggies bring a refreshing balance.
Pair with Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the pie. It adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes.
Serve with Pickles: Sweet or dill pickles add a nice tang and contrast against the richness of the filling.
Offer Hot Sauce or Chili Flakes: A splash of hot sauce can elevate the dish for those who enjoy a kick.
Include a Glass of Red Wine: A full-bodied red like a Merlot pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the brisket.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Brisket Shepherd’s Pie?

If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some substitutes for your brisket shepherd’s pie:

Ground Beef or Lamb: For those who prefer a more traditional touch, ground beef or lamb can easily replace brisket. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.
Vegetarian Meat Alternatives: Use lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat for a plant-based version. They’ll create a hearty and fulfilling filling.
Sweet Potatoes: Switch out the baby red potatoes for sweet potatoes. They’ll offer a sweeter flavor and add vibrant color to the dish.
Different Cheese: Rather than cheddar, try using mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile and creaminess.
Seasoned Panko Crust: Instead of mashed potatoes, top the filling with seasoned panko bread crumbs for a crunchy finish. Mix in some parmesan for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Brisket shepherd’s pie is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Its comforting layers, rich flavors, and versatile nature make it a staple recipe worth mastering. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening, this dish won’t disappoint.

So, the next time you’re looking to create something delicious for dinner, give this recipe a try. You’ll be rewarded with smiles around the table—and maybe even some seconds!

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Brisket Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Author: Glennis Annis Cuisine: American Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 45 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr 30 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 545 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

A few weeks ago, I found myself craving something hearty and comforting. You know, the kind of meal that wraps you up in a warm blanket of flavor.

After a bit of rummaging in the fridge, I came up with a brilliant idea: brisket shepherd's pie.

This dish spoke to me on many levels. It's a blend of savory brisket, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all baked to perfection.

As I sautéed the onions and carrots, the delicious aroma filled my kitchen, teasing my senses. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.