Veggie Loaded Cauli Mash Shepherds Pie

Veggie Loaded Cauli Mash Shepherd’s Pie

This hearty shepherd’s pie is packed with veggies and topped with a creamy cauliflower mash, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• For the filling:
  • 1-1/2 lbs ground beef or bison
  • 1 large onion, diced small
  • 3 celery ribs, diced small
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and diced small
  • 6 garlic cloves, chopped or minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
  • 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
  • 3 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the cauliflower mash:
  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter or ghee
  • 1/2 cup milk (or unsweetened plant-based milk)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cooking Guide:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the filling: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the diced onion, celery, and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, frozen peas, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Make the cauliflower mash: While the filling simmers, cook the cauliflower florets in a large pot of boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until tender. Drain the water and return the cauliflower to the pot.
6. Mash the cauliflower with a potato masher or immersion blender until smooth. Stir in the butter, milk, Parmesan cheese (if using), salt, and pepper.
7. Assemble the pie: Transfer the meat filling to a baking dish. Top with the cauliflower mash, spreading it evenly over the filling.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Tips:

• You can use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of ground beef.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add an extra cup of chopped vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
• If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use another type of shredded cheese or omit it altogether.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Enjoy this delicious and comforting Veggie Loaded Cauli Mash Shepherd’s Pie!