Full disclosure…this recipe is not traditional Sheppard's pie, Its something I have been throwing together for years because its easy, can be made ahead and is a crowd pleasing comfort food in cold weather.
I cook every day for 6, 3 large men and 2 growing teenage boys, they are always hungry and I am always looking to have make ahead meal preps that I can make at the same time as I prepare that night's dinner, this one fits the bill.
It can be made with a variety of toppings, and can be part of your weekly meal prep. I will have my rice cooker going at the same time and portion the meat, rice and vegetables to freeze for grab-and-go healthy meals.
I always start with seasoning and browning 2 family packs of lean ground beef, turkey or both. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, rosemary, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. When fully cooked, I divide the meat in 2, one for meal preps or for tomato sauce later in the week.
To the remaining meat, I add 2 cups of water and 2 packets of beef gravy, frozen veggies and simmer for 5 min. You can add any vegetables you like and as much or as little as you want. Then transfer the meat to an oven-safe dish and add your topping. Here's where the versatility comes in. You can add traditional mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, or mashed cauliflower. Top with shredded cheese, goat cheese, or no cheese at all. Sprinkle dried parsley or rosemary on the top and bake at 425° for 15 min. Enjoy!
