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Shepherd's Pie Casserole

Shepherd’s Pie Casserole


  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a hearty, soul-warming dish featuring a savory filling of smoked turkey bacon, ground beef or lamb, vegetables, and fresh herbs, topped with creamy mashed potatoes made with plant-based butter and milk. It combines smoky, rich flavors with a fluffy, golden crust, perfect for cozy nights and easy meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, finely chopped
  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup peas
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (natural)
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Mashed Potato Topping

  • 3 large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 3 tbsp plant-based butter
  • 1/4 cup plant-based milk
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings and Garnishes

  • Plant-based cheese, shredded (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
  • Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • Smoked paprika (natural), for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Finely chop the smoked turkey bacon and sauté it in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and peas, stirring until soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned and crumbly. Stir in tomato paste (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), fresh thyme and parsley, beef broth, and the natural gelling agent. Let the filling simmer gently while preparing the mashed potatoes.
  2. Make Creamy Mashed Potato Topping: Cook peeled potatoes in boiling water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash thoroughly with plant-based butter and plant-based milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cooked filling evenly in a casserole dish. Spoon or pipe the mashed potatoes over the filling and smooth the surface with a spatula. Use a fork to create ridges on the mashed potatoes to help develop a golden crust when baked.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the mashed potatoes are golden and crisp at the edges. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the creamiest mash.
  • Simmer the filling gently to deepen flavors and maintain moisture.
  • Allow the casserole to rest 5 to 10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
  • Customize herbs with rosemary or sage for different flavor profiles.
  • Adding plant-based cheese on top before baking creates a golden, bubbly crust.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Shepherd's Pie, Casserole, Comfort Food, Smoked Turkey Bacon, Mashed Potatoes, Gluten Free, Plant-Based, Family Meal