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- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or an equivalent-sized casserole dish. Spread the mixture evenly.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the meat mixture, spreading them out with a spatula to cover the entire surface. Use a fork to create a decorative pattern on top, which helps it brown nicely during baking.
- (Optional) Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes for extra flavor and a golden, cheesy crust.
4. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are slightly crisp. If you want a more golden top, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve:
- Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Tips:
- Ground Meat: Traditional Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, but you can use ground beef for a Cottage Pie. Some people even use a mixture of both!
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it a bit longer if cooking from cold.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, corn, or green beans to the filling for added flavor and texture.
- Topping Variations: For a unique twist, try adding grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese on top of the mashed potatoes.
This Classic Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food, with its rich meat filling and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s an easy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal with family and friends. Enjoy!
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