Ina Garten Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food. It brings warmth, satisfaction, and a nostalgic flair. Growing up, I remember shuffling into my grandmother’s kitchen, where I could often find her mixing up something hearty. Shepherd’s Pie made frequent appearances on the dinner table.

Years later, I discovered Ina Garten’s version, and it quickly became one of my favorites. With a flavorful meat filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a true labor of love that doesn’t take all day to create.

What Is Ina Garten’s Shepherd's Pie?

Ina Garten’s Shepherd's Pie is a delicious twist on the traditional dish. Unlike lamb-filled versions, this recipe uses ground beef and is enhanced with smoky bacon, vegetables, and a combination of flavorful seasonings.

The mashed potato topping is remarkably creamy, enriched with butter and milk. It’s truly a dish that brings comfort and joy no matter the season.

The Ingredients

For the Topping:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup full-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives
• 2 medium russet potatoes (approximately 1 1/2 pounds), peeled and cut into quarters
• 2 medium turnips (around 1 1/4 pounds), peeled and cut into quarters
• Sea salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

For the Filling:

• 2 pounds ground beef chuck
• 4 slices of thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon, diced
• 2 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, finely diced
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• 4 ounces cremini mushrooms, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
• 2 teaspoons freshly chopped thyme
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

How to Make Ina Garten’s Shepherd's Pie

Creating this dish is similar to a delightful cooking adventure. Each step unveils an exciting layer of flavor. From frying the bacon to whipping the potatoes, it’s all about harmony in the kitchen. Let me walk you through the process.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Turnips

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled potatoes and turnips. Boil them until they're tender when pierced with a fork—around 20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the water and return them to the pot.

Step 2: Mash It Up

With the potatoes and turnips back in the pot, mix in the butter and milk. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to create a smooth and creamy mixture. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper, then fold in chives and grated Parmesan cheese. Set this aside while you tackle the filling.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Vegetables

In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving behind the drippings. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, around 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Once the veggies are soft, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it's browned, breaking it up with a spoon. This is the time to add in the finely chopped mushrooms and thyme, stirring until mushrooms release their moisture and soften.

Step 5: Flavor It Up

Next, stir in the tomato paste, all-purpose flour, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, ensuring the mixture thickens nicely. Finally, fold in the crispy bacon, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

In a baking dish, pour the filling mixture evenly. Then, spread the creamy potato and turnip mixture over the top, smoothing it out with a spatula. You can create some texture using the back of a fork, which can give it a nice crust when baked.

Step 7: Bake It Right

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place the assembled pie into the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. The kitchen will have the most incredible aroma by now, and just wait until you dig in!

Notes

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley enhance the flavor significantly. Don’t skimp on them.
• Make Ahead: This shepherd's pie can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge until you're ready to bake it.
• Texture Matters: For extra creaminess in the mashed topping, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the potato mixture.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: Let the beef brown properly. This develops the flavor, creating a richer filling.
• Go for Quality Meat: Choosing high-quality beef can elevate your shepherd's pie tremendously.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover shepherd's pie in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days. You can also freeze it before baking. Just wrap it well in foil and store it in a freezer-safe dish. Defrost in the fridge overnight before baking when you're ready to indulge again.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, consider how you want to balance the dish’s richness:

1. Fresh Green Salad: A citrusy vinaigrette cuts through the heaviness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Add a delicious crunch and nutrient diversity.
3. Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up any pie remnants.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Their bright color and crispness create a beautiful plate.
5. Light Sauces: A drizzle of balsamic glaze on the side complements the pie well.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Ina Garten's Shepherd's Pie?

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner alternative, use ground turkey or chicken. They add a different but delightful flavor.
2. Vegan Beef Crumbles: Trying to cut out meat? This substitute works nicely and holds up well in the dish.
3. Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb version, make a cauliflower topping instead of the potato and turnip mash. It’s lighter yet still delicious.
4. Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes in the mash for a slightly sweet twist and added nutrients.
5. Vegetables: If you have specific veggies you enjoy, toss them in! Peas, corn, or even spinach can add appealing variations.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Shepherd's Pie is more than just a dish; it’s an experience, a taste of comfort wrapped in love. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply a cozy night in.

Cooking it transports me back to the warmth of my childhood kitchen. So gather your loved ones, pull out the ingredients, and enjoy every bite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this dish won’t disappoint. Happy cooking!

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