Shepherds Pie Cauliflower Mash (Printable Version)

Hearty pie with savory meat filling and creamy cauliflower mash topping for a wholesome twist.

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Filling

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 carrots, diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1.1 lbs ground lamb or beef
07 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
08 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
09 - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
10 - 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon beef or vegetable broth
11 - 1 cup frozen peas
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste
13 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, optional

→ For the Cauliflower Mash Topping

14 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
15 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
16 - 1/4 cup milk or cream
17 - Salt and black pepper to taste
18 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional

# Directions:

01 - Set oven to 400°F and allow to reach temperature.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until very tender. Drain thoroughly.
03 - While cauliflower cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5 to 6 minutes until softened.
04 - Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
05 - Mix in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce if using, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
06 - Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Add peas and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
07 - Transfer drained cauliflower to a food processor. Add butter, milk or cream, salt, pepper, and Parmesan if using. Blend until smooth and creamy.
08 - Spoon meat filling into a 2-quart baking dish. Spread cauliflower mash evenly over the top.
09 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until topping is lightly golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • A lighter, gluten-free and low-carb alternative to traditional shepherd's pie
  • Packed with vegetables and lean protein for a wholesome, balanced meal
  • The cauliflower mash is surprisingly creamy and satisfying
  • Perfect for meal prep and feeding a hungry family
  • Comfort food that fits into health-conscious eating plans
02 -
  • Use a food processor for the smoothest cauliflower mash—a masher will work but won't be as creamy
  • Make sure to drain the cauliflower very well to prevent a watery topping
  • Brown the meat properly for maximum flavor development
  • Let the pie rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier serving
  • Check all labels if making gluten-free—Worcestershire sauce often contains gluten
  • This dish freezes well—assemble but don't bake, then freeze for up to 3 months
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