Shepherd’s Pie Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes

 Shepherd's Pie Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes is a fun twist on the classic shepherd's pie, combining flavorful meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying dish. Here’s a simple and tasty recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb for a traditional flavor)

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced

4 tbsp butter

1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for creamier mashed potatoes)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy (Optional but recommended):

2 tbsp butter

1 tbsp flour

2 cups beef broth

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

For the Meatballs:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

2. Shape the Meatballs:

Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

3. Cook the Meatballs:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.

For the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Cook the Potatoes:

In a large pot, cover the diced potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

2. Mash the Potatoes:

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.

For the Gravy (Optional):

1. Make the Gravy:

In the same skillet used for the meatballs, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

2. Add Broth:

Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

To Assemble:

1. Combine Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes:

In a baking dish, arrange the cooked meatballs in an even layer. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meatballs, spreading them evenly to cover the top.

2. Top with Gravy (Optional):

Pour the gravy over the meatballs and mashed potatoes for extra flavor.

3. Serve:

Serve the shepherd’s pie meatballs and mashed potatoes hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

This hearty dish combines the r

ich flavors of shepherd’s pie with the comfort of mashed potatoes and the fun of meatballs. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!