Salisbury Steak Shepherd’s Pie

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions, garlic, and mushrooms to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onions are soft and the mushrooms are browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Make the Gravy: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until the mixture thickens.

Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Make the Potatoes Creamy: If using fresh potatoes, mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy. If using leftover mashed potatoes, stir in a bit of milk or cream to soften them. For a golden top, mix in an egg yolk.

Step 3: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie

1. Layer the Beef Mixture: Spread the beef filling evenly in the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef, spreading them evenly to cover the filling. Use a fork to create peaks for a textured finish.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the shepherd’s pie for 25-30 minutes, until the potatoes are golden and the filling is bubbly.
2. Broil for Extra Color (Optional): For a more golden crust, place the pie under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak Shepherd’s Pie

• Use Flavorful Beef: Choosing ground beef with a bit more fat (80/20) adds flavor to the dish. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate peas, carrots, or corn into the beef mixture for extra texture and nutrition.
• Creamier Potatoes: Add a little sour cream or cream cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
• Make Ahead and Freeze: Prepare the shepherd’s pie in advance and freeze it unbaked. When ready to serve, bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Salisbury Steak Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty, flavorful dish that merges two beloved comfort foods into one satisfying meal. With its rich beef filling, savory mushroom gravy, and fluffy mashed potato topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a make-ahead meal, this dish is both versatile and delicious. Serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, comforting dinner experience.