This comforting dish combines a hearty layer of ground meat and veggies topped with crispy hash browns. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Perfect for cozy nights.
You get to enjoy crunchy hash browns on top! I love how easy it is to whip this up, and leftovers taste amazing the next day. Who doesn’t love a good second helping? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Traditional shepherd’s pie uses lamb, but ground beef works great too! Use lean beef for less fat. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. They won’t have that rich flavor, but they’re healthier.
Vegetables: Onions and garlic are must-haves for flavor. Carrots add sweetness, and frozen peas and corn are easy and convenient. You can swap in any favorite veggies like bell peppers or green beans if you like.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter version, vegetable broth works just as well, especially if you want a vegetarian twist. Homemade broth can also enhance the flavor.
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns make this recipe super simple! You can use fresh potatoes—just shred and squeeze out excess moisture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sweet potatoes for a different taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Adding cheese is optional but gives a nice richness. If you prefer dairy-free, try using a plant-based cheese or simply skip it. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Make Sure My Hash Browns Are Crispy?
To get that wonderful crispy texture on the hash browns, follow these tips:
- Use frozen hash browns directly from the bag—no thawing needed! This helps keep them from getting mushy.
- Toss the hash browns with melted butter; this fat will help them crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Spread them evenly on top of the meat mixture. Don’t pack them down; this helps hot air circulate and crisp every potato.
- Make sure your oven is preheated to the right temperature. Baking at 400°F (200°C) works perfectly for golden, crispy potatoes.
Let them bake until golden brown, and you’ll have a delicious crispy topping to your shepherd’s pie!
How to Make Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or lamb for a traditional shepherd’s pie)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra fresh thyme for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 4 cups frozen hash browns (shredded potatoes)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you can expect to spend around 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important for getting those hash browns nice and crispy later on!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them together until they become soft and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or lamb, if you’re going traditional) to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned all over, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Make sure it’s cooked through before moving on!
4. Add the Veggies:
Stir in the diced carrots, frozen peas, and optional corn. Cook this mix for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies start to soften up a bit.
5. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together well.
6. Simmer:
Let this mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You want the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly; give it a good stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the pan.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Once the filling is ready, transfer it to a baking dish. Spread it out evenly, creating a nice base for your pie.
8. Prepare the Hash Browns:
In a mixing bowl, toss the frozen hash browns with melted butter and a pinch of salt. This will give them a wonderful taste and help them get crispy in the oven.
9. Assemble the Pie:
Evenly spread the buttery hash browns over the meat mixture in the baking dish. This will be the delicious topping of your shepherd’s pie!
10. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the hash brown layer for extra richness and flavor.
11. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want the hash browns to cook until they’re golden brown and crispy on top.
12. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove your dish from the oven. If you’d like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and freshness. Let the pie sit for a few minutes before serving to let everything settle.
13. Enjoy!
Dig into your warm and comforting Hash Brown Shepherd’s Pie. It’s perfect for dinner or any cozy gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Hash Browns Straight from the Bag?
Absolutely! Using frozen hash browns directly from the bag will save you time and ensure the potatoes stay crispy while baking. Just toss them with melted butter and spread them evenly on top!
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! If you’re out of beef broth, you can substitute it with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water. Just remember that using broth will add more flavor than water alone.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth. Consider substituting the meat with lentils, mushrooms, or some other protein source like tempeh to keep it hearty.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help keep the hash browns crispy!
