Meatloaf Shepherd's Pie Recipe - Hearty Food Ideas
It’s a chilly evening. You’ve just finished a busy day and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Enter meatloaf shepherd's pie!
This comforting dish combines two classics: the savory meatloaf and the heartiness of shepherd’s pie. It’s cozy, satisfying, and—let’s be honest—your family will love you for it. Plus, it uses up leftover meatloaf, which means less food waste and more deliciousness on your plate.
You might be wondering, what makes this recipe stand out in a sea of culinary options? Well, let’s dig in.
Servings 6
Calories 420kcal
Cost $
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 cups crumbled leftover meatloaf or cooked ground beef
- 2 tablespoons creamy unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup frozen carrot medallions
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram or Italian seasoning blend
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to preference
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to preference
- 2 tablespoons plain white flour
- 1 cup savory beef stock
- 1/2 cup tangy ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard or Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 package pre-prepared mashed potatoes 20-ounce
- 1/3 cup creamy sour cream
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup petite frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
- Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma will make your cooking space feel welcoming.
Step 2: Add Carrots and Seasoning
- Next, stir in the frozen carrot medallions and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle in the marjoram, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This adds a fragrant touch to your mixture.
Step 3: Combine Meat and Flour
- Crumble your leftover meatloaf into the pan. Stir it well to combine, allowing it to absorb the flavors. Once everything is mixed nicely, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir for another minute. This will help thicken the filling.
Step 4: Pour in the Liquid Ingredients
- Now, pour in the beef stock, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring this to a simmer and allow it to thicken. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom.
Step 5: Finish with Peas and Parsley
- Once thickened, mix in the frozen peas and half of the chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your filling. Take it off the heat and prepare for the topping.
Step 6: Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the pre-prepared mashed potatoes with sour cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly until it's creamy and smooth.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
- Spread the meat mixture into a casserole dish evenly. Then dollop the mashed potato mixture on top. Use a spatula to smooth it out or make decorative peaks—whatever calls to your inner chef.
Step 8: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the casserole for about 25-30 minutes, until the top turns golden brown.
Step 9: Serve
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle the remaining parsley on top for that fresh finish.
Notes
- Here are some tips to ensure your meatloaf shepherd’s pie turns out perfect:
- Leftover Variations: Feel free to use variations of leftover meats. Ground turkey or chicken works great too.
- Mashed Potato Alternatives: If you’re in a rush, store-bought mashed potatoes can save you time.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate any veggies you have on hand. Corn or bell peppers can add a fun twist.
- Cheese Options: Exchange Parmesan for cheddar or a cheese of your choice for an extra cheesy topping.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the pie and store it in the refrigerator a day in advance. When you’re ready, just pop it into the oven.