How To Make A Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie

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Shepherd’s pie is a beloved classic among comfort foods. This hearty dish typically consists of a base layer of savory meat filling, topped with mashed potatoes, baked to perfection, and served hot. In this recipe, we are giving this traditional dish a twist by making it with sweet potatoes instead of mashed potatoes. The natural sweetness in sweet potatoes adds a unique and delicious flavor to the dish. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of creating a delicious Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie. So, let’s gather the ingredients and get started!

Introduction to Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie and Ingredients

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal, sweet potato shepherds pie is definitely a dish you should try. This classic recipe puts a twist on the traditional shepherds pie by swapping out the standard mashed potato topping for a sweet and savory sweet potato mash. Made with simple and wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week.

What is Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie?

Sweet potato shepherds pie is a variation of the classic shepherds pie that originated in the UK. Traditionally, shepherds pie is made with ground lamb and topped with mashed potatoes. Sweet potato shepherds pie, on the other hand, uses sweet potatoes as the topping and can be made with ground beef or turkey instead of lamb.

Ingredients Needed for Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie

– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for topping

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Cooking the Sweet Potatoes

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender.

Mashing the Sweet Potatoes

Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth.

Seasoning the Sweet Potatoes

Add the milk and nutmeg to the sweet potatoes and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Making the Filling

Ingredients for the Filling

Cooking the Filling

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking up with a spatula as it cooks. Add the onion and garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes until soft. Add the chopped carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften. Add the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce and stir to combine. Add the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Seasoning the Filling

Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Shepherds Pie

Layering the Filling and Sweet Potatoes

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spread the filling in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the sweet potato mash over the top of the filling, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Adding Cheese on Top (Optional)

If you’re a cheese lover, top the sweet potato mash with grated cheddar cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Baking and Serving the Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie

Once you’ve assembled your sweet potato shepherds pie, it’s time to bake it until it’s hot and bubbly. Here’s how to do it:

Baking the Shepherds Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place your assembled shepherds pie in the center of the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly.
3. If the top of your pie is starting to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with a piece of foil.

Once your shepherds pie is finished baking, it’s time to serve it up!

Serving and Storing the Shepherds Pie

1. Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
2. Serve with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread.
3. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat leftovers, simply pop them in the microwave or oven until they’re hot and heated through. And there you have it—a delicious and comforting sweet potato shepherds pie that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. Enjoy!In conclusion, Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie is an amazing dish that is perfect for a hearty and wholesome meal. The combination of savory meat filling and sweet potatoes brings an explosion of flavors to your palate. By following these easy steps, you can have your own Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie ready within a short time. So, next time you are in the mood for some comfort food, give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness of Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie ahead of time. You can prepare the pie and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you are ready to serve, just bake it in the oven until it is heated through.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie?

Yes, you can freeze Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie. After assembling the pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Freeze it for up to three months. When you are ready to bake, take it out of the freezer and let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight. Then bake it as per the instructions.

What can I use instead of ground beef in the filling?

If you prefer, you can use ground lamb or ground turkey instead of ground beef in the filling. You can also use a vegetarian meat substitute or lentils for a meat-free option.

Can I make Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie in a vegetarian version?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie. You can replace the meat with lentils, beans, or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. By tweaking the recipe, you can make a delicious vegetarian version of this classic dish.

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