Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy dish that combines hearty meat and veggies topped with crispy hash browns. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for a family meal!
This dish makes me feel warm and happy inside. Who can resist the crunchy topping? I love serving it with a side salad for a complete dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: This forms the base of your dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. You could even use lentils for a vegetarian alternative, which still gives a hearty texture!
Mixed Vegetables: Ditch the frozen mix and use fresh ones if you prefer! Carrots, celery, and peas are classic choices. You can also swap in green beans or corn. If you’re allergic to any, just leave them out or replace them with other veggies you enjoy.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. If you don’t have them, canned diced tomatoes can be a perfect substitute. Just drain them a bit to avoid excess moisture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sometimes, I like to mix in some Gruyère or pepper jack for a twist! If you need it dairy-free, try vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Get the Hash Browns Super Crispy?
Getting those hash browns crispy is key! Start by ensuring they’re thawed and well-drained. Here’s how to make them perfectly crispy:
- Mix the hash browns with melted butter, milk, salt, and pepper. This adds flavor and helps them crisp up.
- Spread them in an even layer over the meat mixture without packing them down too tightly.
- For extra crispness, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just watch closely to avoid burning!
How to Make Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., diced carrots, celery, bell peppers, peas)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Hash Brown Topping:
- 4 cups frozen hash browns (shredded potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for baking, making a total of about 45 minutes to enjoy this comforting dish. This includes time for all the delicious smells to fill your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your dish is ready to go in.
2. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or lamb. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it out to keep your pie from being greasy.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and sauté until the onion is tender and fragrant—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add More Veggies:
Now, toss in the mixed vegetables and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them all together for about 5 minutes until everything is starting to soften up. This adds color and goodness to your filling!
5. Create the Filling:
Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), thyme, rosemary, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything well and then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens a bit. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
6. Prepare the Hash Brown Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the frozen hash browns with melted butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. This will make your topping flavorful and creamy!
7. Assemble the Pie:
Transfer the delicious meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Then, layer the seasoned hash browns on top of the meat mixture. Use a spatula to smooth the hash browns so they cover everything nicely.
8. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the hash brown layer. This will melt into a gooey, cheesy topping that everyone will love!
9. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for a golden brown and crispy top. It’ll smell amazing!
10. Let it Rest:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This little bit of resting time helps everything settle so you can serve it without a mess.
11. Serve it Up:
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve it warm. Enjoy your delicious Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie with family or friends!
Happy cooking! Enjoy every comforting bite of your Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly in this recipe and can save you prep time. Just add them to the skillet frozen; they’ll cook down nicely as you sauté the other ingredients.
Can I Substitute the Meat for a Vegetarian Option?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef or lamb with lentils, mushrooms, or even plant-based ground meat. Just ensure to season well to maintain that hearty flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If necessary, add a splash of broth to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and assemble the pie just before baking. Just cover it well and refrigerate. Bake it straight from the fridge; you might need to add a few extra minutes to cooking time.