This Ham Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy dish made with tender ham, creamy mashed potatoes, and mixed veggies all baked together until golden. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
If you’re like me, you’re gonna love how easy it is to whip up. Perfect for using leftover ham. I often make it when I want comfort food that doesn’t take all day to prepare!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creaminess. If you want to lighten it up, you can also try cauliflower for a lower-carb version. Just steam the cauliflower until tender before mashing.
Butter & Milk: For extra creaminess in your mash, stick with full-fat milk and butter. However, you can use plant-based butter and almond milk if you’re dairy-free. A splash of cream or sour cream can add an extra layer of richness, too!
Ham: If you’re looking for a healthier option, diced turkey or chicken can work well instead of ham. For a vegetarian version, you could use sautéed mushrooms or lentils to create a hearty filling without meat.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use any cheese you love, like Gruyère or mozzarella. If you’re avoiding dairy, vegan cheese alternatives are available; just check for melting ability!
Broth: Use either chicken or vegetable broth based on your dietary preference. Homemade stock adds tons of flavor, but store-bought works just fine if you’re short on time.
How Do I Achieve Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Mashing potatoes to a delightful creaminess is key to this dish! Here’s how to make sure your potatoes turn out perfect every time:
- Always boil potatoes in salted water; it helps add flavor throughout.
- Cook until they’re fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid overcooking to prevent a gummy texture.
- Drain well to remove excess moisture, then add warm butter and milk for that smooth finish.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for the smoothest results. Avoid a blender, as it can make the potatoes gluey!
- Season with salt and pepper while mashing to taste; you can always add more later.
Ham Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk (plus extra as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice)
For Garnish:
- Fresh or dried parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ham Shepherd’s Pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake. All in all, you’ll spend around 40 minutes to get this delicious dish ready to serve. Perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your pie when you’re finished preparing everything.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the potato chunks and let them boil until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once they’re cooked, drain the potatoes and mash them together with butter and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper. Set these aside while you prepare the filling.
3. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens, which should take around 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Ham and Peas:
Stir in the diced ham and optional frozen peas into the skillet. Allow this mixture to cook for 2-3 minutes or until everything is heated through.
5. Make it Saucy:
Sprinkle the flour over the ham mixture, stirring well to evenly coat everything. Gradually pour in the broth while continuing to stir, creating a thick but moist filling. Cook this mixture for a few more minutes until it thickens. Finally, add half of the grated cheese and mix until well combined.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the ham mixture into a baking dish or a cast iron skillet, spreading it out evenly. Next, spoon the creamy mashed potatoes on top of the ham filling, smoothing it out evenly. Use a fork to create some ridges on the surface of the mash for extra browning when baking.
7. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the mashed potatoes. Now, pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the Shepherd’s Pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish!
This Ham Shepherd’s Pie is perfect for cold days, featuring a creamy mashed potato topping paired with a savory ham filling. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Leftover Ham for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover ham. Just ensure it’s diced into small pieces so it mixes well with the rest of the ingredients. Any cooked ham will work beautifully!
What Can I Use Instead of Potatoes?
If you’re looking to make a low-carb version, you can substitute mashed cauliflower for the potatoes. Just steam the cauliflower until tender, then mash it with butter and milk for a similar creamy texture!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Ham Shepherd’s Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings.
Can I Freeze Ham Shepherd’s Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it! Assemble the pie but don’t bake it. Instead, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it as directed.
