Skillet Shepherd’s Pie

 Skillet Shepherd’s Pie is a quick and easy version of the classic Shepherd’s Pie, made in a skillet for a one-pan meal. It features a savory filling of ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and then baked until golden. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting, hearty meal with minimal cleanup. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

For the Meat Filling:

1 lb ground beef (or lamb, if preferred)

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped

1 cup frozen peas (or green beans)

1/4 cup tomato paste

1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced

4 tablespoons butter

1/2 cup milk (or cream for a richer texture)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, cover the diced potatoes with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. Make the Meat Filling:

1. Cook the Meat: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or lamb) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrots to the skillet, and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

3. Stir in Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens and becomes fragrant.

4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary (if using). Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the peas, and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:

1. Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat mixture in the skillet. Use a spatula to spread them evenly and smooth the top. You can make decorative swirls on top with the back of a spoon if desired.

4. Bake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Bake the Skillet: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Note: If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the meat filling to a baking dish before adding the mashed potatoes on top.

5. Serve:

1. Let It Rest: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

2. Serve Hot: Scoop out portions and serve the Shepherd's Pie while it’s still warm.

Tips:

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meat filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time, then assemble and bake the Shepherd’s Pie when ready to serve.

Add Cheese: For extra richness, sprinkle shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan) on top of the mashed potatoes before baking.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out or add other vegetables such as corn, mushrooms, or parsnips in place of carrots or peas.

Skillet Shepherd’s Pie is a simple, one-pan meal that combines the flavors of a traditional Shepherd’s Pie with the convenience of a skillet. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for any occasion!