This Gnocchi Shepherd’s Pie is a fun twist on the classic dish! Instead of the usual mashed potatoes, we use soft and fluffy gnocchi, smothered in a tasty meat and veggie mix.
Honestly, who can resist a cozy meal that comes together easily? I love how the gnocchi adds a nice touch, making it special. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Both choices add great flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works well here too. You can even make it vegetarian with lentils or a mix of beans!
Mixed Vegetables: Use frozen veggies for convenience, but fresh ones are equally delicious. If carrots, peas, or corn aren’t handy, feel free to toss in whatever veggies you love, like bell peppers or spinach!
Potato Gnocchi: I’m a fan of store-bought gnocchi for ease, but homemade is always special. If you’re looking to cut carbs, cauliflower gnocchi is a tasty alternative.
Cheese: I think mozzarella lends a nice stretchiness to the dish, while cheddar brings a sharp flavor. Blend them or use any cheese you have on hand, like gouda or pepper jack for a kick.
Fresh Parsley: For garnish, but you can swap in fresh thyme or chives if you have them. They add a nice touch and boost the flavor too!
How Do I Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce Easily?
Creating a cheese sauce can seem tricky, but with a few steps, it’s quite simple. This sauce adds a creamy layer to your Gnocchi Shepherd’s Pie.
- Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour until the mixture is smooth and light golden, about 1 minute. This is your roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously. This prevents lumps and gives a nice texture.
- Keep whisking until it thickens. Remove from heat and add half of the shredded cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
Remember, take it slow when adding the milk and keep stirring. This method ensures a smooth sauce every time!
How to Make Gnocchi Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn), frozen or fresh
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Gnocchi Topping:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. The assembly is straightforward, and soon you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your delicious pie!
2. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef or lamb. Cook until it’s nicely browned, stirring occasionally, and then drain off any excess fat from the pan.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Mixed Vegetables:
Next, stir in your mixed vegetables. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften up. If you’re using frozen veggies, just make sure they are heated through!
5. Add the Sauce Ingredients:
Now, mix in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and the sauce thicken a little.
6. Cook the Gnocchi:
While your meat mixture simmers, get the gnocchi ready. Boil water in a separate pot and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes until they float. Drain them and set aside.
7. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens up. Then, remove from heat and mix in half of the shredded cheese.
8. Combine Gnocchi and Cheese:
Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the cheese sauce until they are well coated. This is going to be the creamy topping for your pie!
9. Assemble the Pie:
Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, spoon the creamy gnocchi and cheese mixture over the meat layer, spreading gently to cover everything.
10. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of your assembled dish. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes!
11. Bake the Shepherd’s Pie:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. You’ll love how it looks!
12. Serve:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Gnocchi Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground beef or lamb are traditional choices, but you can substitute them with ground turkey or even make it vegetarian by using lentils or a mix of beans for a hearty filling.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can replace beef broth with vegetable broth or chicken broth for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to taste, as broths can vary in saltiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat and vegetable mixture and the cheese sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, assemble and follow the instructions as usual!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
