This comforting Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie is a fun twist on the classic dish! It’s filled with savory ground meat and veggies, all smothered under a crispy layer of hash browns.
Who can resist a golden, crunchy topping? I always sneak a little extra hash brown on top, just because it’s so good! 😄 It’s a simple meal that makes everyone happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is common, but lamb is traditional for shepherd’s pie. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. They will change the flavor a bit but keep it tasty!
Mixed Vegetables: You can use fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables. If you prefer fresh, consider bell peppers, green beans, or zucchini. Canned beans can also work as a nice substitute for added protein.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for more texture, but if you only have tomato sauce, it works too. You could also blend fresh tomatoes if you have them handy. Just remember to adjust the liquid accordingly.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic, but mixing it up with mozzarella or pepper jack can be delicious. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese or omit it altogether.
How Do I Get the Hash Browns Crispy and Golden?
Getting that delightful crispy top takes a little technique! If using frozen hash browns, make sure to thaw them slightly and dry them to remove excess moisture. This prevents them from getting soggy.
- Mix your hash browns with melted butter and half of the cheese. This combo helps achieve that crispy exterior when baked.
- Spread the hash brown mixture evenly over the meat layer, and press gently down. This helps create a solid crispy crust.
- For an even crispier finish, broil for just a couple of minutes at the end. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
How to Make Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or lamb, for traditional shepherd’s pie)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn), diced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (or 1/2 cup tomato sauce)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Hash Brown Topping:
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns (or fresh grated potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to cook, including baking time. You will have a total of about 50 minutes before you’re ready to serve this comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first—go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your pie.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and see-through. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells wonderful.
3. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or lamb) to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. This is where the flavor starts to build!
4. Add Seasonings and Veggies:
Now it’s time to mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Adjust the seasoning to your liking!
5. Prepare the Hash Browns:
While your filling is simmering, get your hash brown topping ready. If using frozen hash browns, thaw them slightly or gently pat them dry to remove extra moisture. Combine the hash browns with the melted butter and half of the shredded cheese.
6. Assemble the Pie:
In an ovenproof skillet or a baking dish, spread the cooked meat and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom. Then, scoop the hash brown mixture on top, pressing it down gently to cover the filling fully. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. If you love a super crispy top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just be sure to watch it closely!
8. Let It Rest:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the pie rest for about 5 minutes to set up. This is the perfect time to gather your loved ones and get ready to enjoy!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh thyme or rosemary on top for a lovely touch. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables are a convenient option and can be directly added to the meat mixture without any thawing required. Just be mindful of the cooking time; they might need a few extra minutes to heat through.
Can I Substitute the Ground Meat?
Yes! While ground beef or lamb is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the filling and cup it in the baking dish, then refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to your baking time as it will be chilled when it goes in the oven.
