Description
This Italian style Shepherd’s Pie reinvents the classic comfort food by infusing it with Italian flavors. Savory ground beef is simmered with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, then topped with a creamy Parmesan mashed potato crust and baked until golden. It’s an indulgent main-course that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Meat Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Potato Topping
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Place peeled, chopped potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-18 minutes. Drain well, then mash with butter, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Set aside and keep warm.
- Cook the Meat Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté chopped onion, carrot, and celery until soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Stir in ground beef, cooking until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, until thickened.
- Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat mixture in an even layer in a 2-quart or 9-inch square baking dish. Spoon or pipe the mashed potatoes on top, spreading to cover the meat completely. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake and Serve: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the edges are bubbling. If desired, broil for 2-3 minutes for extra browning. Rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving warm.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Make ahead: Prepare up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure broth and tomato products are certified gluten-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 78mg
