Today, we embark on a comfort food odyssey to craft the legendary Shepherd’s or Cottage Pie. Or, as I like to call it, Homestyle Harvest Pie. This timeless dish, with its rich and savory filling topped with golden mashed potatoes, is the epitome of comfort, perfect for cozy gatherings and family dinners. Designed to serve approximately 4 to 6 hungry souls, this recipe is a staple in my kitchen. I often find myself doubling or even tripling the batch, as the leftovers are always a big hit!
Homestyle Harvest Pie is not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about creating a meal that brings warmth and joy to your home. The traditional version, loaded with ground meat and vegetables, is a classic that never disappoints. However, I love experimenting with variations to cater to different dietary preferences and to keep things exciting. For my daughter, I prepare vegan and vegetarian options that are just as hearty and delicious as the original. Additionally, I’ve crafted some adventurous flavor twists that infuse the pie with unique and tantalizing tastes.
Imagine a bubbling casserole emerging from the oven, the enticing aroma filling your kitchen, and the first bite melting in your mouth, evoking a sense of nostalgia and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Homestyle Harvest Pie recipe is straightforward and adaptable, making it a delightful project for any home cook.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and join me on this culinary journey. Let’s dive into this heartwarming favorite that promises to nourish both body and soul, making every meal a cherished memory.
Homestead Harvest Pie (AKA: Shepard's or Cottage Pie)
The Flavorful Fellowship
- Ground Beef or Lamb 1 pound
- Olive Oil extra virgin 2 tbsp
- Onion diced 1 cup
- Parsley dried 2 tsp
- Thyme dried 1 tsp
- Rosemary dried 1 tsp
- Worcestershire Sauce 1 tbsp
- Salt 1 tsp
- Black Pepper ½ tsp
- Garlic Cloves minced 2
- Tomato Paste 2 tbsp
- Beef Broth 1 cup
- Flour 2 tbsp
- Peas and Carrots frozen 1 cup
- Sweet Corn kernels ½ to 1 cup
- large Russet Potatoes cubed 2
- Butter ½ cup
- Half and Half ⅓ cup
- Parmesan Cheese ¼ cup
- Garlic Powder ½ tsp
The Culinary Chronicles
- The Prelude: Preheat your oven to a roaring 400°F (200°C). In a skillet over a medium-high flame, let the 2 tbsp Olive Oil dance with 1 cup Onion until they soften. Welcome the ground meat to brown.
- The Flavor Crescendo: Sprinkle in the herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic, flour, and tomato paste. Once harmonized, introduce the broth and veggies. Bring to a boil, then simmer.
- The Potato Crown: Boil potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter, half and half, parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- The Grand Assembly: In a 9x9 casserole, layer the meat mixture. Crown it with the mashed potatoes.
- The Finale: Bake for 15-20 minutes. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Adventurous Options
Stay Hungry,
Chef Ted
Founder - Let's Cook LLC Adventurous Options :
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Go Mediterranean: Substitute ground beef with ground lamb, and add a pinch of cinnamon and cumin for a Mediterranean twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in some blue cheese or feta with the mashed potatoes for an extra tangy flavor.
- Veggie-Packed: Incorporate chopped mushrooms or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added texture and nutrition.
- How to Make it Vegan: Replace ground beef with a vegan ground meat substitute, use vegan butter and plant-based milk for the potatoes, use the vegan version of Worcestershire Sauce, and swap beef broth with vegetable broth.
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