You know, there’s something about a hearty shepherd’s pie that just screams comfort—like a warm hug from an old friend on a chilly evening. This turkey version? It’s lighter but doesn’t skimp on flavor, with its savory layers and that oh-so-satisfying mashed potato topping. I tried it last weekend after watching a rerun of a cooking show, and it was like finding an unexpected gem in a thrift store—simple, yet oh so fulfilling.
Steps
- Begin by preparing the mashed potato topping: Peel and place the potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until tender.
- As the potatoes are cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
- Concurrently, start on the turkey filling: Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. Add the ground turkey, mushrooms, shredded carrot, parsley, garlic, bouillon powder, and thyme to the skillet. Cook while stirring until the turkey is fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste, stir in flour, and cook for an additional minute before removing from heat.
- Complete the mashed potato topping: Drain the cooked potatoes and place them in a bowl. Add warm milk and butter, then mash until you achieve your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the pie by transferring the turkey filling into a deep-dish pie pan or casserole dish. Evenly spread the mashed potato topping over the filling, using a fork to create a swirl pattern on the surface.
- Bake the assembled pie in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the potato topping is lightly browned.
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes, peeled
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 (4.5 ounce) can of sliced mushrooms
- 1 large carrot, shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2034 | Total Fat: 78g | Saturated Fat: 30g | Cholesterol: 426mg | Sodium: 2052mg | Total Carbohydrate: 228g | Dietary Fiber: 30g | Total Sugars: 24g | Protein: 108g | Vitamin C: 234mg | Calcium: 354mg | Iron: 18mg | Potassium: 6414mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of meat instead of turkey?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with other meats like ground beef or chicken. Just ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly before assembling the pie.
- How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- To make a dairy-free version, replace the butter and milk in the mashed potatoes with plant-based alternatives like olive oil and almond milk or coconut milk.
- Can I prepare the pie in advance?
- Absolutely! You can make the filling and mashed potato topping ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble right before baking. Alternatively, the entire assembled pie can be refrigerated for up to a day before baking.
- Is it possible to freeze the turkey shepherd’s pie?
- Yes, you can freeze the pie after assembling but before baking. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- What can I use instead of mushrooms?
- If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can omit them or substitute with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas.
Tips
- Ensure Consistency in Mashed Potatoes: When mashing the potatoes, make sure they are adequately drained to avoid a watery consistency. Add the milk and butter gradually to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Brown the Turkey Filling Thoroughly: To enhance the flavor of the filling, ensure the ground turkey is cooked until it’s nicely browned. This will add depth to the overall taste of your shepherd’s pie.
- Use a Fork for a Decorative Topping: After spreading the mashed potatoes over the filling, use a fork to create peaks or swirls. This not only makes the dish visually appealing but also aids in achieving a crispy top.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes after baking. This will help the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavor.
Equipment
- Deep-dish pie pan or casserole dish
- Potato masher
- Large skillet
- Large pot
