This Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and cozy dish, featuring a tasty layer of seasoned meat and veggies topped with creamy sweet potato mash. It’s hearty and comforting!
I love how the sweet potato brings a nice twist to the classic recipe. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! Perfect for chilly nights. 🍠💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a creamy and naturally sweet flavor. If you prefer regular potatoes, they can work too, but the taste will be less sweet.
Ground Beef: While I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, ground turkey or chicken can be lighter alternatives. Also, if you’re vegetarian, try lentils or mushrooms as a hearty substitute.
Vegetables: Carrots, corn, and peas add color and nutrition. Feel free to swap in green beans, bell peppers, or even zucchini if you have them on hand.
Beef Broth: If you’re short on beef broth, vegetable broth works just fine! For a more intense flavor, consider using a homemade stock or bouillon cube dissolved in water.
How Do I Get the Sweet Potatoes Just Right?
Getting your sweet potatoes creamy and smooth is key to a great topping. After boiling them, ensure they’re well-drained to avoid a watery mash. Here’s how to prepare them perfectly:
- Peel and chop into even chunks for uniform cooking.
- Boil in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Test with a fork!
- Drain them thoroughly and let them sit for a minute to release excess steam.
- Add butter and milk or cream while mashing for extra creaminess.
Feel free to season with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance their flavor!
Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potato Mash:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or lamb)
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup peas (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 45 minutes to cook. Plan for about 1 hour in total, perfect for a cozy dinner that warms you inside out!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s ready when it’s time to bake the pie.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the sweet potato chunks and cook until they are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain them well and set aside.
3. Prepare the Filling:
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the Veggies:
Stir in the diced carrots, corn, and peas (if using). Cook for a few minutes to help the veggies soften and mix with the meat.
6. Flavor the Filling:
Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until combined.
7. Simmer the Mixture:
Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes. This will help the mixture thicken up. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
8. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
In a bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes with butter and milk (or cream) until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
9. Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, spoon the mashed sweet potatoes over the top, using a fork to create a nice texture if you like.
10. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until the top is lightly browned and the filling is bubbling.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped herbs. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor.
12. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor your hearty and comforting Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie. Perfect for gathering with family and friends!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes for the sweet potatoes if you prefer. However, keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile, making it less sweet and slightly different in texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or place in a covered dish in the oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef or lamb with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version. Just ensure to incorporate enough seasoning to maintain flavor.
What Can I Serve With Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also great with some crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious filling!
