Turkey Shepherd's Pie is a classic comfort food dish that combines savory ground turkey, vegetables, and mashed potatoes.

This dish is perfect for a cozy night in, as it is easy to prepare and provides a hearty and satisfying meal. The ground turkey is seasoned with herbs and spices and combined with carrots, onions, and peas to create a flavorful and nutritious filling. The mashed potatoes are creamy and buttery, providing the perfect topping to the pie. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to your preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients required

Ground turkey: Ground turkey is the main protein source in this dish. It is a leaner option compared to ground beef and adds a delicious flavor to the filling.
Carrots: Carrots add a natural sweetness to the dish and provide a good source of fiber and Vitamin A.
Onion: Onion provides a savory flavor to the dish and adds depth to the filling.
Peas: Peas are a classic addition to Shepherd's Pie and add a pop of color and texture to the filling.
Garlic: Garlic adds a pungent flavor to the dish and provides numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system.
Chicken broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the filling and helps to bind the ingredients together.
Flour: Flour is used as a thickening agent for the filling.
Tomato paste: Tomato paste adds a rich, umami flavor to the filling and helps to thicken the sauce.
Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the filling.
Fresh thyme: Fresh thyme adds a delicate and slightly minty flavor to the filling.
Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes are used as a topping for the Shepherd's Pie. They add creaminess and a comforting texture to the dish.
Butter: Butter is added to the mashed potatoes to make them rich and creamy.
Milk: Milk is added to the mashed potatoes to make them smoother and easier to spread over the filling.

How to make it?

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
To make the filling, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and carrots and sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the ground turkey and garlic to the skillet, and cook until the turkey is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the turkey and vegetables, and stir to combine.
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Add in the frozen peas and thyme, and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
To make the mashed potato topping, place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
To assemble the pie, spread the turkey and vegetable filling in an even layer in a 9-inch baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly over the filling.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mashed potato topping is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Additional Tips

For a more flavorful filling, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar to the filling mixture.
To save time, you can use leftover mashed potatoes or store-bought mashed potatoes instead of making them from scratch.
If you prefer a crispy top to your shepherd's pie, you can sprinkle grated cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking.
For a healthier version, you can substitute the russet potatoes with sweet potatoes, which are packed with fiber and vitamins.
To make the pie ahead of time, you can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes separately and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply assemble the pie and bake as directed.
You can also freeze the fully assembled pie for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.

FAQ's

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for turkey if you prefer. You can also use ground lamb, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian version.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen peas, carrots, or mixed vegetables instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the filling.

Can I freeze the shepherd's pie?

Yes, you can freeze the fully assembled pie for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.