Shepherd's Pie with Sweet Potato and Herb Topping

Looking for potato and ground beef recipes? This Shepherd's Pie with sweet potato topping is comfort food reimagined! Easy to make and utterly delicious, the family will love it. Give it a go!

Alright, let's get cooking! ever find yourself craving proper comfort food? i know i do. how about some potato and ground beef recipes ? i am thinking about shepherd's pie.

But not just any shepherd's pie. we're talking a supercharged, flavour-bomb version. get ready for shepherd's pie with sweet potato and herb topping! it's got that comforting feel with a great twist.

Shepherd's Pie: Not Your Nan's Recipe!

This beef casserole recipes take a classic and gives it a modern, vibrant spin. it's a dish where the savoury ground beef filling and a rich gravy meets a slightly sweet and earthy topping.

It's proper hug-in-a-bowl food. it's also perfect for a chilly evening. this recipe is inspired by the original, but adapted for a sweeter, more delicious touch.

This dish is a classic with roots deep in british and irish cuisine. this humble pie has fed families for generations.

It uses what's on hand to create a filling and hearty meal. it's comfort food at its finest! don't be intimidated by the "medium" difficulty.

Trust me, you can totally nail it. it takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to whip up. it yields a generous six servings! so gather your friends and family.

Why Sweet Potato?

Think of sweet potato as the star here! it's packed with vitamin a. and it is great source of fibre.

Plus, it's naturally sweet, making the topping seriously delicious. serving this beef dinner is perfect for a cosy sunday roast.

Or a comforting weeknight meal that feels special. what makes this recipe special is the combination of that classic beef and potatoes with the sweet potato twist.

Honestly, it's the best of both worlds!

Time to get our ingredients together for making the best beef recipes for dinner .

Right, let's get this show on the road! you fancy a bit of "potato and ground beef recipes," do you? think proper comfort food, the kind that warms you from the inside out.

We're talking shepherd's pie, but with a twist. it's like your nan's recipe, but sassier. honestly, it's one of my favourite one pot dinners – less washing up, you see?

Ingredients & Equipment: Shepherd's Pie, Sorted

This isn't just any Beef Casserole Recipes . We're going for a sweet potato topping instead of the usual spuds. Trust me, it's a game-changer!

Main Ingredients: Let's Get Specific

• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Use decent stuff; it makes a difference!
• Onion: 1 large , chopped (about 1 ½ cups). Brown, not burnt, yeah?
• Carrots: 2 medium , diced (about 1 cup). Adds a bit of sweetness.
• Celery: 2 stalks , diced (about ¾ cup). It's that savoury base.
• Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g) . Go for 80/20; it's got the right fat content for flavour. Don't go too lean, or it'll be dry.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon .
• Dried Rosemary: 1 teaspoon .
• Smoked Paprika: ½ teaspoon . Adds a bit of oomph.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon , plus more to taste. Go easy, you can always add more later.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon , plus more to taste. Freshly ground is best.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (30g) . This thickens the gravy.
• Beef Broth: 1 cup (240 ml) . Good quality broth makes all the difference for this Beef Recipes For Dinner . I had some bland stuff once… never again.
• Frozen Peas: ½ cup . Adds a pop of colour and sweetness.
• Frozen Corn: ½ cup . Same as the peas, really.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Gives it a bit of richness.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . The secret ingredient, don't skip it. If you haven't got any try soy sauce as a substitution option.
• Sweet Potatoes: 2 pounds (900g) , peeled and cubed. These are your topping.
• Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (57g) . Makes the topping lush.
• Milk: ½ cup (120 ml) . Keeps the topping smooth.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup , chopped. Fresh herbs make it pop.
• Fresh Chives: 2 tablespoons , chopped.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Seasoning Notes: Let's Talk Flavour

Thyme and rosemary are your base herbs. they work wonders with beef and potatoes . smoked paprika adds a touch of smokiness, which i adore.

For a flavor enhancer add a pinch of mustard powder it really makes a beef dinner special.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven . Crucial for browning the meat and making the gravy.
• Large Pot . For boiling those sweet potatoes.
• Potato Masher or Electric Mixer . To get that sweet potato topping just right. I prefer a masher; it keeps it rustic.
• 9x13 inch Baking Dish . For assembling and baking the whole shebang.

Basically, you need the basics. don't go buying fancy gadgets unless you really need them. now, get cooking with these ground beef recipes ! honestly, these one pot meals and beef dishes are what makes coming home worth it.

"research reveals that families who eat together regularly have stronger bonds. "

Alright, let's talk shepherd's pie ! forget soggy, bland versions. we are talking proper, hearty comfort food. a hug in a bowl, like my nan used to make.

Except, we're giving it a modern twist. we are using sweet potato. don't tell her! it is perfect for a chilly night.

Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie: Elevate Your Dinner!

Forget boring beef dinner recipes. this beef casserole is packed with flavour. this isn't just any potato and ground beef recipes either.

This is next level. the sweet potato topping gives a lovely sweetness. this balances the rich beef recipes for dinner perfectly.

Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Mission

• Essential prep first. Chop 1 large onion , dice 2 carrots , and 2 celery stalks . Get 2 pounds sweet potatoes peeled and cubed. Honestly, this makes cooking so much easier.
• Time-saving tip. Chop the veg the night before. Store it in airtight containers. You know, adulting.
• Safety reminder. Watch your fingers when chopping! Sharp knives are your friends, but also your enemies.

One-Pot Wonder? (Almost!) Step-by-Step

1. First, boil your sweet potatoes. Cook until tender. Then mash with 4 tablespoons butter , ½ cup milk , herbs, and seasoning. Set aside.
2. Next, sauté your onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened. This takes about 5- 7 minutes .
3. Brown 1 pound ground beef . Break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease. No one wants a greasy pie!
4. Stir in your spices. Add 1 teaspoon thyme , 1 teaspoon rosemary , and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika . Then, ½ teaspoon salt , and ¼ teaspoon pepper . Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute .
5. Gradually whisk in 1 cup beef broth , 2 tablespoons tomato paste , and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce . Simmer until thickened. Usually takes about 5- 10 minutes .
6. Add ½ cup frozen peas and ½ cup frozen corn . This step makes everything look so vibrant.
7. Pour your amazing beef filling into a 9x13 inch baking dish . Spread the sweet potato topping evenly.
8. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 25- 30 minutes . The topping should be golden brown. The filling will be bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

This brings out the natural flavors in the beef and potatoes .

Pro Tips: Secret Ingredients & Savvy Shortcuts

• Expert technique. Brown the ground beef and potatoes like a boss. This adds so much flavor! You will use less salt, too.
• Common mistake alert. Don't overcook the sweet potatoes. Gluey topping is a no-no.
• Make-ahead option. Assemble the pie and keep it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving. I do this all the time .

Seriously, though? this beef and potatoes recipe is worth the effort. it ticks all the boxes. it’s one of those one pot dinners that will become a family favourite.

It's proper delicious. enjoy. if you like this recipe, check out our other ground beef recipes .

Alright, love, let's talk Recipe Notes for this incredible Shepherd's Pie with Sweet Potato and Herb Topping. Honestly, these little nuggets of info can make or break the dish, you know?

Serving Up Some Deliciousness

Plating Like a Pro

Right, presentation is key. picture this: a generous scoop of that golden-topped pie, steaming gently. serve it in a rustic bowl, maybe a bit chipped around the edges – adds character, doesn't it? for a touch of fancy, sprinkle some extra fresh parsley on top.

That's it.

Sidekick Sensations

For sides, i'm thinking a simple green salad. you know, something fresh with a light lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Steamed green beans would also be lovely, super easy. don't forget some crusty bread to mop up every last drop of that amazing gravy!

Keeping It Fresh (or Not!)

Fridge Rules

If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), whack them in an airtight container and they'll be grand in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure it cools down properly first.

Freezing Frenzy

Yep, you can freeze this bad boy! let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in cling film and foil.

It'll keep for up to 3 months. label it, of course, so you don't end up defrosting something mysterious in january.

Reheating Revelation

To reheat from the fridge, pop it in the oven at 350° f ( 175° c) until heated through. or, for a quick fix, microwave it.

From frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. honestly, it's just as good reheated.

Twists and Turns: Variations on a Theme

Dietary Tweaks

Want to make it veggie? easy peasy. swap out the ground beef for lentils or a mixture of mushrooms and chopped walnuts.

Loads of flavour, i promise! for a low-carb twist, try using mashed cauliflower for the topping instead of sweet potatoes.

Honestly, it still does the trick!

Seasonal Swaps

In the autumn, try adding some roasted butternut squash to the filling for extra sweetness. during summer, think about using fresh corn instead of frozen.

Using chicken broth can also lighten the dish.

Quick Nutrition Lowdown

Each serving clocks in around 450 calories, with a decent 30g of protein. you're also getting a good dose of fiber and some essential vitamins from the sweet potatoes and veggies.

Remember, this is just an estimate – it all depends on what exactly you throw in.

Alright then! those are my notes. now get out there and create some magic with these amazing potato and ground beef recipes .

Don't be scared to add your own flair. i know you can nail it! you'll be finding new ground beef and potatoes and beef recipes for dinner in no time.

Beef dinner doesn't have to be daunting with some ground beef recipes . these one pot meals mean less washing up too! if you want to bake, try these awesome beef casserole recipes , or even better, make your favorite beef and potatoes with this recipe! do not worry, all beef dishes are tasty.

One pot dinners are always welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this Shepherd's Pie with Sweet Potato Topping for later? It's a bit of a faff to make from scratch every time!

Absolutely! Shepherd's Pie is a brilliant make-ahead meal. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in cling film and foil (or store in an airtight container). It will happily keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

My kids aren't keen on sweet potatoes. Can I use regular potatoes for the topping, like a classic Shepherd's Pie?

Bob's your uncle, you certainly can! Just swap the sweet potatoes for an equal weight of regular potatoes. Maris Piper or Yukon Gold potatoes work particularly well for a fluffy, delicious topping. Follow the same instructions for boiling and mashing, and feel free to add a knob of butter and a splash of milk for extra creaminess. It will be less healthy, but still delicious! It's one of the best potato and ground beef recipes with slight variations.

What's the best way to prevent the sweet potato topping from being too runny or too dry?

The key is in the cooking and mashing! Don't overcook the sweet potatoes, as they'll absorb too much water and become watery when mashed. Drain them thoroughly after boiling. When mashing, add the milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency. If it's still too dry, add a little more milk. If it is too runny after adding the milk, you can add 1 tbsp of flour at a time.

I'm trying to cut down on carbs. Are there any lower-carb substitutions I can make in this potato and ground beef recipes?

Good on ya for trying to keep it healthy! For a lower-carb Shepherd's Pie, you could swap the sweet potato topping for mashed cauliflower. Or, use a mix of cauliflower and sweet potato for a compromise. In the filling, consider adding more vegetables like mushrooms, courgette, or bell peppers to bulk it out without adding extra carbs. Cauliflower mash has great health benifits, so if you want a healthy meal, consider it.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? I'm having a dinner party and want to get as much done in advance as possible.

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Shepherd's Pie ahead of time, right up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes beforehand to allow it to come to room temperature slightly. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through properly. It'll be a smashing success at your dinner party!

What kind of ground beef is best to use in this recipe? Does it matter if it's lean or not?

While you can use leaner ground beef, something with a bit of fat (around 80/20) will give you the most flavourful and succulent filling. The fat renders down during cooking, adding richness to the gravy. If you do use leaner beef, you might want to add a little extra olive oil to the skillet at the beginning. Just be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning, regardless of the fat content.

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