This Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and cozy dish that mixes creamy pumpkin with hearty meat and veggies, all topped with fluffy mashed potatoes. Perfect for chilly days!
It’s like the classic shepherd’s pie dressed in fall colors! I like to add a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra touch of yum. You can’t go wrong with this tasty twist! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While ground beef is classic, you can easily substitute with ground lamb, turkey, or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try lentils or a mix of your favorite legumes!
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is the easiest choice, but if you have fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it for an even fresher flavor. Sweet potato could serve as a tasty alternative too.
Mashed Potatoes: I love my mashed potatoes creamy with butter and cream, but feel free to use olive oil or milk for a lighter version. Cauliflower mash is another great low-carb option!
Vegetables: Don’t shy away from substituting veggies! Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans can work well in place of or along with peas and corn. Get creative based on what you have in your fridge!
What’s the Best Way to Achieve Perfectly Layered Mashed Potatoes?
Layering your mashed potatoes on top of the filling is crucial for texture. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a spoon or spatula to spread the mash evenly over the filling. This prevents gaps and ensures a nice seal.
- For a crispy top, use a fork to create texture on the mashed potatoes; this helps them brown beautifully in the oven.
- If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly across the top – it creates a delicious crust.
Baking the dish until golden brown adds an irresistible layer of flavor. Let it rest briefly after baking to help set the layers before diving in!
How to Make Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or lamb if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and cream or milk)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
In total, you’ll need about 50 minutes. This includes 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes of baking time. Plus, there’s about 15 minutes of simmering the filling. It’s a straightforward recipe that results in a wonderful hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your dish is ready to bake.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s warm, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they are translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or lamb) to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned all the way through, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the Veggies:
Mix in the diced carrots, peas, corn (if using), and chopped mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften a bit.
5. Spice It Up:
Stir in the tomato paste, pumpkin puree, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help thicken the filling and meld all the flavors together.
6. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Transfer the hearty meat and vegetable filling into a baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This will be the foundation for your delicious pumpkin shepherd’s pie.
7. Top with Mashed Potatoes:
Spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly over the filling. If you like, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy crust that’s sure to please!
8. Bake Until Golden:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want the mashed potato topping to turn golden brown and slightly crisp on the top.
9. Let it Rest:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the pie sit for a few minutes. This will help the layers settle, making it easier to serve.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you’d like, and scoop generous portions onto plates. Enjoy the cozy warmth of this autumn-inspired dish! Perfect for family dinners or special occasions!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Lamb?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works wonderfully in this recipe. Just be mindful that it might be a bit drier, so adding an extra splash of broth or some olive oil can help keep the filling moist.
What Can I Substitute for Pumpkin Puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can use butternut squash puree or sweet potato puree as a tasty alternative. Both will add a similar sweetness and creaminess to the dish!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the pie before baking; just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, and you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of pumpkin shepherd’s pie!