Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread

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Ingredients for Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread

Gather the following ingredients to create this comforting casserole:

For the Filling:

  • 1 pound ground beef (or lamb for a traditional shepherd’s pie)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cornbread Topping:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs

Directions for Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Meat Filling:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or lamb) until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Add the diced onion and carrots, cooking until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Mix in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the frozen peas.

3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:

  • Transfer the meat filling into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

4. Make the Cornbread Topping:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
  • In another bowl, mix the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  • Pour the cornbread batter over the meat filling, spreading it out evenly.

5. Bake:

  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Serve:

  • Let the shepherd’s pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula for serving

Tips for Making the Best Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread

  • Choose Your Meat Wisely: While traditional shepherd’s pie uses lamb, ground beef is a common substitute. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like corn, green beans, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Homemade Cornbread: If you have a favorite cornbread recipe, feel free to substitute it for the topping to make this dish your own.
  • Leftover Magic: This dish is perfect for using up leftover vegetables or meat. Get creative with what you have on hand!

Storage and Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: You can also freeze portions of the casserole. Wrap individual servings in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Pairing Suggestions

This Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread pairs wonderfully with:

  • Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the casserole.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition.
  • Pickles or Relish: A tangy pickle or relish can enhance the dish’s flavors and provide a nice contrast.

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