Easy Mini Shepherd’s Pies
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the comforting taste of traditional shepherd's pie in an easy-to-make mini format! These delightful individual servings feature a savory filling of ground meat and veggies, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, these mini shepherd’s pies are sure to please everyone at the table.
A Perfect Comfort Food
Mini shepherd’s pies are a fantastic way to enjoy the comforting flavors of a traditional dish while presenting it in an inviting, bite-sized format. These individual servings are not only appealing to the eye but also make portion control easy. They're ideal for sharing with family and friends during cozy gatherings, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy their own personal pie.
The combination of seasoned ground meat and vibrant vegetables serves as a hearty filling, while the creamy mashed potato topping adds a delightful creaminess. The contrasting textures make each bite a rich sensory experience, combining the savory meat layer with the fluffy potatoes. Whether you prefer beef or lamb, the choice is yours, ensuring these mini pies cater to various tastes.
Customizable Ingredients
One of the best aspects of these mini shepherd’s pies is their versatility. You can easily tailor the filling by incorporating your favorite vegetables or even opting for a vegetarian or vegan version. Consider adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or zucchini for added moisture. The key is to focus on the seasonings and maintain the juicy character of the filling.
If you’re looking to keep this dish healthier, you can substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes or cauliflower for the mashed topping. These alternatives not only enhance the nutritional profile but also introduce unique flavors that complement the dish beautifully. Feel free to get creative while sticking to the recipes’ core concept!
Storing and Reheating
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the mashed potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients well and prepare as per the steps below.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat with onions and garlic until browned. Add carrots, peas, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until veggies are tender. Remove from heat.
Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Pies
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a muffin tin, layer the meat mixture followed by a layer of mashed potatoes. Smooth the top with a spoon.
Bake and Serve
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the tops are golden. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious mini shepherd’s pies!
Cooking Time Tips
When preparing these mini shepherd’s pies, the cooking time can sometimes vary based on your oven and the size of your muffin tin. It’s essential to keep an eye on the pies as they bake, especially towards the end of the suggested time. Look for a golden-brown top, which indicates the mashed potatoes are perfectly cooked and crispy.
If you're making a larger batch, consider using multiple muffin tins or baking them in a larger dish. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as a broader baking surface may require a little extra time to ensure that everything heats evenly.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider serving these mini shepherd’s pies alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. A light green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette will bring a refreshing balance to the richness of the pies. You can also serve them with a side of warm crusty bread for sopping up any leftover juices.
For those who enjoy a little spice, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate the flavors even further. On the other hand, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a nice finishing touch to your plates, making each bite even more delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them and refrigerate before baking.
→ What can I substitute for the meat?
You can use lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Easy Mini Shepherd’s Pies
Savor the comforting taste of traditional shepherd's pie in an easy-to-make mini format! These delightful individual servings feature a savory filling of ground meat and veggies, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, these mini shepherd’s pies are sure to please everyone at the table.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the filling
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the mashed potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat with onions and garlic until browned. Add carrots, peas, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until veggies are tender. Remove from heat.
Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a muffin tin, layer the meat mixture followed by a layer of mashed potatoes. Smooth the top with a spoon.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the tops are golden. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g