Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas, frozen or fresh
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes, homemade or store-bought
- 2 tbsp butter, optional
- ¼ cup milk or dairy-free alternative
- Salt to taste
- Optional: grated cheese, fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Filling: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Remove and set aside. Browning the turkey adds flavor and texture. Use a large skillet.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Sautéing until fragrant enhances the flavors of the vegetables.
- Add Remaining Vegetables: Add carrots, peas, and corn, cooking for 3-5 minutes. Cooking the vegetables softens them and releases their natural sweetness.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried herbs, and broth. Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Return Turkey: Return the turkey to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Seasoning to taste is crucial for a flavorful dish, ensuring the right balance of salt and pepper.
- Prepare Mashed Potato Topping: If using fresh potatoes, boil until tender, then mash with butter, milk, and salt. Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked before mashing for a smooth and creamy texture. Use a potato masher.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures even baking and consistent cooking. Use an oven.
- Assemble Shepherd’s Pie: Spread the turkey filling evenly in a baking dish. Layer the mashed potato topping over the filling, smoothing it out with a spatula. Even layers ensure even cooking and a balanced flavor in each serving. Use a baking dish.
- Add Optional Cheese: Optional: Sprinkle grated cheese on top for extra flavor. Cheese adds a golden crust and extra flavor, enhancing the visual appeal and taste.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbling. Bake until the filling is hot and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Cooling slightly allows the pie to set, making it easier to serve and preventing it from falling apart.
Notes
- Brown turkey thoroughly.
- Sauté vegetables until fragrant.
- Use fully cooked potatoes.
- Cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Baking, Sautéing, Mashing
- Cuisine: British, American