If you're craving a hearty comfort food that combines the classic flavors of shepherd's pie with the satisfying texture of a baked potato, look no further than this Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato recipe. This dish marries savory ground beef and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes, all served in a fluffy baked potato. Perfect for cozy family dinners or a satisfying weeknight meal, it promises to warm your heart and fill your stomach. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a delightful twist on a traditional favorite, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. It's a comfort food classic that appeals to both adults and children, making it a go-to option for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale:
4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 pound ground beef (or ground lamb)
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 cups mashed potatoes
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly, then pierce each potato several times with a fork. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 45-60 minutes until the skin is crisp and a fork easily pierces the flesh.
While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Pour in the beef broth and add the peas. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for about 10 minutes.
Prepare the mashed potatoes by boiling peeled potatoes until tender, then mashing them with butter, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and cut a slit down the center of each potato. Fluff the insides with a fork.
Spoon the ground beef filling into the opened potatoes, heaping it over the top.
Top each filled potato with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese if desired.
Return the assembled potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown.