Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy dish that’s sure to warm you up! It’s packed with hearty ground meat, mixed veggies, and topped with crispy hash browns that add a fun crunch.
Honestly, it’s like a hug in a dish. I love how easy it is to throw together and perfect for using up leftovers. Plus, who can resist that golden, crunchy topping? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the dish and gives it a hearty flavor. I often use lamb for a traditional shepherd’s pie twist. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken also works well.
Onion & Garlic: These two add depth to your dish. I love using yellow onions because they’re sweet and cook well. If you need a milder option, chives or shallots can substitute nicely for fresh flavor.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies like peas, carrots, and corn save time. You could swap in fresh veggies or even use canned if that’s what you have. Just make sure to drain them well!
Broth: Beef broth gives richness, but vegetable broth works too, especially for a vegetarian version. Be sure to choose low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns are easy but if you want to make your own, just grate fresh potatoes. I sometimes mix in some spices for extra flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar in this recipe for its flavor. However, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for something different.
How Do I Ensure My Hash Browns Are Crispy on Top?
Getting that perfect crispiness on top of your hash brown layer is crucial! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure to thaw your frozen hash browns completely. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Mix the thawed hash browns with melted butter and half of the cheese; this helps it brown better.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the meat filling. Use a spatula to press it down slightly to create a nice crust.
- Consider broiling the pie for the last few minutes of baking if you want an extra golden top. Just watch it closely to prevent burning!
How to Make Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or lamb for traditional shepherd’s pie)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or canned diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Hash Brown Topping:
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the pie.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook it until it’s softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells delicious!
3. Cook the Ground Meat:
Add the ground beef (or lamb) to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s nicely browned. This gives your pie that rich flavor.
4. Add Vegetables and Seasoning:
Now it’s time to stir in the mixed vegetables, tomato paste, tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Season it all with salt and pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens up a bit.
5. Prepare the Hash Brown Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with melted butter and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix it all together until everything is nicely combined.
6. Assemble the Pie:
Take your meat mixture and transfer it into a baking dish or cast iron skillet. Spread it evenly so it’s ready for the hash brown layer. Then, spoon and spread the hash brown mixture over the meat, making sure it covers everything well.
7. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of your hash browns. This will give it a nice cheesy goodness as it bakes!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden and crispy.
9. Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that the flavor will be milder, so you might want to enhance the seasoning a bit.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain the crispiness of the top.
Can I Omit the Cheese or Use a Dairy-Free Option?
You can certainly omit the cheese if you prefer, or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese option. Just make sure to check that it’s a meltable variety so you still get that delicious coating on top!
Is It Possible to Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze it! Assemble the pie but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed. It may need a few extra minutes to bake through completely.
