Simply foolproof cast iron skillet Shepherds Pie
The easiest, foolproof cast iron skillet Shepherds Pie in the books. If you're a meat and potatoes fan, then this one's for you! A rich and hearty meal that is perfect for the whole family, and to indulge on a cold, winter night.
Equipment
- 1 Cast Iron Skillet 12 inch round
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef (or lamb)
- 2 cups sweet peas
- 2 cups chopped carrots
- 1 small white onion (diced)
- 1 cup vegetable or beef broth (or bone broth)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 sprig rosemary and thyme (or 1 tsp dried of each)
- 2 cloves garlic (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 5-6 medium yellow potatoes (or 7-8 small red potatoes)
- 1/2 cup Malbec (or cooking wine) *optional*
Instructions
- First determine your size cast iron skillet, or casserole dish. This recipe suits a roughly 12 inch cast iron skillet, so any larger or smaller will require adjustment to the number of listed ingredients.
- You'll want to take care of your potatoes first. Wash and peel them, then simmer in boiling water until softened (fork-tender) - this may take up to 30-45 minutes depending on their size.
- In the meantime, mince your fresh herbs and garlic, and peel and chop your carrots and onions, then set aside.
- Drain and allow potatoes to cool before mashing or running through a potato ricer. With mashed potatoes in a bowl, add the 3/4 cup of heavy cream or milk as well as salt and pepper to taste. Then set aside.
- Now preheat the oven to 425F.
- In your cast iron skillet, brown the ground beef or lamb. Also add in your chopped onion and diced carrots.
- (Optional) When cooked nearly 75%, add in the 1/2 Malbec. This adds an amazing aroma and flavor to the meat, but the alcohol does get cooked out.
- Then add in your minced Rosemary, Thyme and garlic, turning down the heat to medium/low. Add the 1 cup of broth and simmer until your carrots are fork tender.
- When carrots are tender (if not already previously boiled), turn off the head and add in your sweet peas to the mixture.
- Using a spatula, evenly distribute the mixture across the skillet. Then spread your mashed potatoes evenly over top before placing in the oven.
- Now you have two choices: cook for 30-40 minutes at 425F, or cook for 25 minutes at 425F then broil the skillet for up to 10 minutes. Broiling will create that charred texture on the potatoes.
- Serve and enjoy.