Quick & Healthy Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort dish, but traditional versions can be heavy and time-consuming. This quick and healthy shepherd’s pie recipe delivers all the delicious flavors you love while keeping it lighter and easier to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses lean ground turkey or beef, plenty of vegetables, and a lightened-up mashed potato topping.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 pound lean ground turkey or beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and mash with almond milk, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey or beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Vegetables & Seasoning: Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Simmer: Pour in the broth, then add the frozen peas and corn. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Assemble the Pie: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the filling to a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
6. Bake & Serve: Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the top is lightly golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Why This Version is Healthier:

• Lean protein: Using ground turkey or lean beef reduces saturated fat.
• Extra veggies: Carrots, peas, and corn boost the fiber and nutrients.
• Lighter mashed potatoes: Swapping heavy cream for almond milk or low-fat milk keeps the dish light without sacrificing creaminess.

This quick and healthy shepherd’s pie is packed with flavor and perfect for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Enjoy!