This Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy dish made with tender turkey, veggies, and a creamy sauce, all topped with fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how easy it is to prepare. Just mix, layer, and bake! It’s perfect for using up leftovers, too. Plus, who can resist a cheesy potato topping? Yum! 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russets for their creamy texture when mashed. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try cauliflower instead to make a cauliflower mash.
Ground turkey: This is a leaner option, and I find it works great here! However, you can substitute with ground beef or chicken if you prefer a richer flavor.
Vegetables: The mix of carrots, peas, and corn adds color and texture. You can also swap in frozen mixed vegetables or even use fresh veggies like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preference.
Milk: Regular milk is good for mashing, but if you’re dairy-free, almond or oat milk works nicely. Cream adds richness, so feel free to use that for a creamier result.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary add flavor. If you have fresh herbs, they brighten the dish even more! If rosemary isn’t your thing, just skip it; thyme alone still tastes great.
How Can I Make My Mashed Potatoes Extra Creamy?
Getting creamy mashed potatoes is key to a great Shepherd’s Pie. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to cook the potatoes until they’re tender. Use a fork to check if they break apart easily.
- Add butter when the potatoes are hot for that rich flavor, and then pour in the milk gradually while mashing.
- Don’t over-mash! Aim for a smooth yet slightly chunky consistency for the best texture.
How to Make Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk (or cream)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup green beans, chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup turkey or chicken broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Turkey Shepherd’s Pie takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour making this delicious dish. A perfect comfort food that is hearty and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get it ready for the final bake.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and quartered potatoes and cook until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set the mashed potatoes aside.
3. Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink.
4. Add Vegetables and Seasoning:
Next, stir in the diced carrots, frozen peas, corn, and green beans if you’re using them. Allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Then, mix in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in the broth, add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary, stirring until well combined. Let this simmer for about 8-10 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Carefully spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula or fork to create some texture. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. Your Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is now ready to enjoy!
Dig in and savor the comforting flavors of this homemade dish!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef for a heartier flavor. Simply cook the beef until browned, following the same steps in the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time. Assemble the dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time if cooking from cold.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can replace it with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for similar umami flavor. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these can be saltier.
