Name: Mini Shepherd's Pies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Lamb or Beef; 1 Onion, chopped finely; 1 cup Carrots, diced small; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 cup Frozen Peas; 2 tbsp Butter; 1/2 cup Milk; 2 cups Mashed Potatoes; 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce; 1 tsp Thyme; 1 tsp Rosemary; Salt and Pepper, to taste

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Are Mini Shepherd’s Pies the Perfect Comfort Food?

Did you know that comfort food has been shown to uplift your mood, reduce stress, and bring back sweet memories? In fact, studies reveal that 75% of individuals believe that certain foods can have an emotional impact. If you’re a fan of savory dishes that evoke warmth and nostalgia, mini shepherd’s pies might just be your new favorite recipe. Bursting with flavor and heartiness, these delightful little pies challenge the notion that comfort food must be heavy. Plus, they are easy to make, serving both as a satisfying meal and a classic dish to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients List

Ground Lamb or Beef: Rich and hearty, this meat forms the flavorful base of your mini shepherd’s pies. Feel free to use ground turkey for a leaner option.
Onion: Chopped finely, onions add a sweet yet aromatic flavor that enhances the meat’s richness. Yellow or sweet onions are perfect choices.
Carrots: Diced small, carrots bring a natural sweetness and wonderful texture. You can swap them for peas or corn if you prefer.
Garlic: Minced garlic elevates the flavor profile, giving the dish a fragrant kick. If you’re not a fan, you can reduce or omit it.
Frozen Peas: These tiny powerhouses add color and a splash of freshness. Fresh peas can be used in season for a more robust flavor.
Butter: Creamy and smooth, butter helps create a luscious mashed potato topping. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil or vegan butter.
Milk: This ingredient provides richness to the mashed potatoes. Almond or soy milk can be used as a non-dairy alternative.
Mashed Potatoes: The star of the show, mashed potatoes add a comforting element. You can use store-bought mash or make your own from scratch for extra flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: A few dashes contribute a depth of umami flavor that brings everything together. Soy sauce can be a great substitute in a pinch.
Thyme and Rosemary: These herbs provide aromatic qualities that complement the savory meat and veggies. If you’re out, Italian seasoning can work too.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to your taste, they enhance all the flavors in the dish.

Timing

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

A little time spent preparing these mini shepherd’s pies results in a dish that’s sure to impress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the mini pies bake evenly and become wonderfully golden on top.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown your ground lamb or beef until it’s fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spatula for even cooking. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become transparent. This step builds a fantastic flavor base.

Step 4: Add Peas and Seasonings

Stir in the frozen peas, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld all the flavors.

Step 5: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the meat and veggies are simmering, prepare your mashed potatoes. In a separate pot, combine cooked potatoes, butter, and milk. Mash until creamy and smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Step 6: Assemble the Pies

In individual ramekins or a muffin tray, spoon the meat mixture until halfway full. Top generously with mashed potatoes, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake

Place the assembled mini shepherd’s pies in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Once done, remove from the oven and let them slightly cool before serving. Pair these pies with a green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

Protein: A staple in the lamb or beef, protein is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
Fiber: The inclusion of veggies like carrots and peas adds dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
Vitamins: Onions and carrots provide essential vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Vitamin C boosts immunity while Vitamin A is crucial for vision.
Healthy Fats: Butter and milk contribute to healthy fats, which are necessary for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.
Minerals: Ingredients such as lamb provide important minerals like iron and zinc, key players in boosting energy and immunity.

Healthier Alternatives

Ground Turkey: A leaner protein option, turkey reduces fat content while maintaining flavor.
Sweet Potatoes: Using mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes adds more nutrients, including vitamin A and fiber.
Low-Fat Milk: Opt for almond or oat milk to cut down on calories and fat while keeping it deliciously creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve mini shepherd’s pies alongside a fresh green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
Pair them with roasted vegetables for an added crunch and flavor.
Consider offering a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side for an extra creamy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Browning the Meat: Skipping this step can lead to bland flavors. Be patient, and allow the meat to develop a deep color.
Over-mixing Potatoes: Mixing too vigorously leads to gummy mashed potatoes. Mash gently until just smooth.
Not Tasting for Seasoning: Always taste your meat mixture before assembling. Adjust the seasoning for optimal flavor.

Storing Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftover pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual pies with plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the crispness of the top.

Conclusion

Mini shepherd’s pies are a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting and nutritious meal in individual portions. With a simple preparation process and delicious flavor profile, they are a must-try. Don’t forget to gather your ingredients and give this recipe a shot. Be sure to leave a review, comment, or subscribe for more culinary delights!

FAQs

A: Q: Can I make these mini shepherd’s pies ahead of time?: A: Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
B: Q: What’s a good vegetarian substitute for meat?: A: You can use lentils or a mix of mushrooms and quinoa to create a hearty vegetarian filling.
C: Q: How can I make this recipe more flavorful?: A: Adding a splash of red wine to the meat mixture or using fresh herbs can enhance the flavor significantly.

Mini Shepherd’s Pies

Author: lilie
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Mini shepherd’s pies are a comforting dish that combines savory meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground lamb or beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes until onions are transparent.
Stir in the frozen peas, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
In a separate pot, combine cooked potatoes, butter, and milk; mash until creamy and smooth.
Spoon the meat mixture into individual ramekins or a muffin tray until halfway full, then top generously with mashed potatoes.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.

Notes

Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pie
Calories: 400
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: shepherd's pie, comfort food, easy recipe, mini pies, hearty meal