Before diving into the heart of the dish, let’s chat about what to serve alongside Shepherd’s Pie. This hearty, comforting meal shines on its own, but it marries beautifully with a range of sides. Consider a light, zesty salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cleanse the palate between bites.
Alternatively, garlic bread or crusty rolls can be a delightful accompaniment, perfect for mopping up that creamy, savory filling. Don’t forget a glass of red wine or a crisp beverage to wash it all down, enhancing the meal’s overall experience.
What is Shepherd’s Pie with Creamed Corn?
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic British dish that generally consists of a meat filling topped with mashed potatoes. Traditionally, it features lamb. However, this version calls for lean ground beef and takes it a step further with the addition of creamed corn.
What you get is a blend of a savory meat and vegetable base coated with a creamy, dreamy corn layer, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes that have been perfectly whipped up. It’s comfort food at its finest — warming your heart and your stomach all at once.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Now, let’s dissect the flavor. The foundation is a savory mix of seasoned beef and vegetables, infused with the aromatic bitterness of onions and the earthy warmth of garlic powder. The sweetness of creamed corn balances it all out, creating a delightful contrast.
The mashed potatoes on top bring creaminess, while a sprinkle of cheese can add a savory kick. Each bite offers a rich tapestry of flavors — from savory to sweet — and creamy to hearty. This blend makes it a delightful dish to savor slowly.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll love this dish for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a prime candidate for weeknight dinners. Second, resilience is the name of the game; it stays delicious whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day.
Third, it’s versatile. You can modify it to fit dietary needs or personal preferences, so everyone can enjoy it. Lastly, it’s just plain good! The flavor profiles play well together while offering comfort and satisfaction in spades.
Ingredients
To whip up this delightful Shepherd’s Pie with Creamed Corn, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled, boiled, and mashed with milk, butter, and a pinch of salt.
- 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef.
- 1 large onion, halved and thinly sliced.
- 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, for a savory topping.
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 1 (14 3/4 ounce) can of whole kernel corn, drained.
- 2 (14 3/4 ounce) cans of cream-style corn.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Begin by boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Cook them until they’re fork-tender, around 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, and a pinch of salt. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the sliced onions to the beef and cook until they are translucent.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
To the cooked meat and onions, sprinkle in the salt, cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well. This should introduce that savory aroma you’ll be craving. Next, mix in the drained whole kernel corn and the cream-style corn. Combine it all thoroughly to form the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and spread the beef and corn mixture evenly into the bottom. Next, carefully spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling. Use a fork to fluff and create peaks in the potatoes. They will crisp beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. It’s going to melt and create a golden layer that adds a savory element to the creaminess of the potatoes.
Step 6: Bake
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. Look for a bubbly, golden top. Let it cool slightly and then serve it up.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy tips to make your cooking experience even better:
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes for flakier, creamier mashed potatoes.
- Try Other Proteins: Consider using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance. Assembly is fast, allowing you to enjoy it on a busy night!
- Customize the Veggies: Add vegetables like carrots or peas to the mix for extra nutrition and color.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutrition breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
How Can You Store This Shepherd’s Pie with Creamed Corn?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For extended storage, consider freezing it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
It will hold well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
If Some Ingredients Aren’t Available:
Noticed a few bare shelves? Here are alternative options you can consider:
- Ground Beef: Substitute with ground lamb or turkey. Both will yield delicious results, adapting the dish while keeping it similar.
- Mashed Potatoes: Try cauliflower mash instead. It’s lighter and offers a different flavor while still being creamy.
- Cream-Style Corn: Use corn puree or blended cooked corn. This will deliver a similar texture and taste but with a fresh spin.
Conclusion
As you can see, Shepherd’s Pie with Creamed Corn is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. It marries tradition with creativity, allowing a classic to evolve while still supplying the warm comfort we seek after a long day. Each bite offers layers of flavor that snap to attention in a way that whispers rather than shouts.
This dish has everything: ease, versatility, and a wonderful mix of flavors that the entire family will enjoy. So, whether it’s a chilly night or just a craving for comfort, I hope you give this delightful dish a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Bisquick Shepherd’s Pie Copycat Recipe
- How To Make British Shepherd’s Pie
- Best Shepherd’s Pie Pizza Recipe
Shepherd’s Pie Recipe With Creamed Corn – Hearty Food Ideas
Description
It’s a chilly evening. The clouds are heavy with the promise of rain, and there’s a cozy scent wafting from the kitchen. What’s bubbling away? A Shepherd's Pie, of course, but not just any Shepherd's Pie.
We're talking about a version that incorporates creamy corn, adding a delightful twist to the traditional recipe. The combination of layers — the flavorful filling topped with smooth mashed potatoes — creates a comforting hug in a dish. This recipe also includes a touch of sweet creamed corn, pushing this classic into new territory.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
-
Begin by boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Cook them until they’re fork-tender, around 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, and a pinch of salt. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
-
In a skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the sliced onions to the beef and cook until they are translucent.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
-
To the cooked meat and onions, sprinkle in the salt, cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well. This should introduce that savory aroma you’ll be craving. Next, mix in the drained whole kernel corn and the cream-style corn. Combine it all thoroughly to form the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and spread the beef and corn mixture evenly into the bottom. Next, carefully spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling. Use a fork to fluff and create peaks in the potatoes. They will crisp beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Cheddar Cheese
-
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. It’s going to melt and create a golden layer that adds a savory element to the creaminess of the potatoes.
Step 6: Bake
-
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. Look for a bubbly, golden top. Let it cool slightly and then serve it up.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes for flakier, creamier mashed potatoes.
- Try Other Proteins: Consider using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance. Assembly is fast, allowing you to enjoy it on a busy night!
- Customize the Veggies: Add vegetables like carrots or peas to the mix for extra nutrition and color.
