Description
These Mini Shepherd’s Pies are a bite-sized version of the hearty classic. Made with a savory ground beef or lamb filling, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked to perfection, they’re great for appetizers, party snacks, or even an easy weeknight dinner. Serve them in muffin tins or ramekins for a fun, individual portion of this comforting dish!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 lb ground beef (or ground lamb)
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
-
Make the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
- Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheese if using. Set aside.
-
Cook the Meat Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and carrot, sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Add garlic and ground beef (or lamb), cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in frozen peas and remove from heat.
-
Assemble the Mini Shepherd’s Pies:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a muffin tin or ramekins.
- Spoon the meat mixture into each muffin cup or ramekin, filling about 2/3 full.
- Top with a layer of mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
-
Bake & Serve:
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add a pinch of paprika on top before baking for extra color.
- Use a piping bag to make fancy mashed potato swirls on top!