Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes

Every time I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes. There’s something so satisfying about this warm, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold winter night. Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to share stories over a bubbling casserole, and this recipe was always a star on our menu. The combination of savory ground meat, vibrant vegetables, and creamy sweet potatoes is simply unbeatable. I remember the delightful aroma wafting through the house as it baked, making it hard to wait until it was ready to be served. It’s a dish that brings family together, and every spoonful is packed with love and nostalgia.

Ingredients to Make Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes

To create a delicious Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes, the choice of ingredients is essential. Each component plays a vital role in delivering flavor and texture. The sweet potatoes bring a creamy goodness, while the ground meat adds heartiness. Fresh vegetables add not only nutrition but also vibrant colors that make the dish visually appealing.

• 2.5 lbs sweet potatoes boiled and mashed (about 4 large) – These creamy tubers are the star of the show, providing a naturally sweet and fluffy topping that contrasts perfectly with the savory filling.
• 3 Tbsp avocado oil – This healthy oil adds richness and flavor when sautéing the onions and vegetables.
• 1 large yellow onion – The foundation for many savory dishes, onions caramelize beautifully, adding depth and sweetness.
• 5 large cloves garlic minced – Garlic brings a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• 2 large carrots chopped – Carrots add a nice crunch and a hint of sweetness to the filling.
• 2 lbs ground lamb or beef – This hearty protein is the heart of the pie, bringing richness and substance to the dish.
• 2 Tbsp rice vinegar – This ingredient adds a touch of acidity that balances the flavors beautifully.
• 2 Tbsp liquid aminos – An excellent soy sauce alternative, it enhances the savory notes in the filling.
• ⅓ cup water or beef broth – This helps to keep the filling moist and flavorful.
• 1 cup green peas – Peas add a pop of color and sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
• 2 cups spinach – Fresh spinach is a fantastic way to incorporate leafy greens into your meal.
• 1 tsp sea salt to taste – Enhances all the flavors, bringing everything together perfectly.

Making Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes

Making Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes is a straightforward process that brings together wonderful flavors and textures. You’ll be amazed at how easily it comes together!

1. Chop the sweet potatoes into rounds that are about 2 inches thick and place them in a pot. Fill the pot with water, then bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil the potatoes until very soft when poked with a fork, about 20 to 30 minutes. Note: you can prepare the rest of the recipe while the potatoes are cooking.
2. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the water and allow them to cool enough to handle. Once cool, remove the skins from the potatoes and mash them until creamy. Set aside.
3. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
4. Add the avocado oil to a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to brown, about 5 to 8 minutes.
5. Move the onions off to one side of the skillet and add the ground meat, leaving it in its square hunk form. Allow the meat to brown on one side for 2 to 3 minutes, then flip it to the other side and brown for another 2 to 3 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the meat into smaller chunks and stir well.
6. Add the carrots, garlic, vinegar, liquid aminos, and water. Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes to allow the mixture to cook and flavors to meld.
7. Remove the lid and stir in the peas, spinach, and sea salt. Continue cooking uncovered for a few minutes to allow the sauce around the solids to thicken slightly.
8. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a large casserole dish. Spread the creamy mashed sweet potatoes over the meat mixture, making sure to cover it evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until everything is hot and slightly bubbly. The top should be golden and inviting.
10. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes!

Making Adjustments

Adjusting recipes to fit your personal preferences can make cooking even more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you customize Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
• Pairing: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the meat with lentils or plant-based ground meat.
• Extra Creaminess: For richer mashed sweet potatoes, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or dairy-free cream.

What to Serve With Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pie.
• Steamed Vegetables: Pair it with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side that balances the meal.
• Crusty Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread on the side to soak up all the delicious juices from the pie.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a comforting weeknight meal.
• Seasonal Pairing: In winter, consider serving it with roasted root vegetables to enhance the cozy vibe!

FAQ

Conclusion

Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes is truly a delightful dish that brings together comforting flavors in a wholesome way. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or as a satisfying meal prep option that you can enjoy throughout the week. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it might just become a staple in your home too. With its ease of preparation and delicious outcome, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.

Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes combines creamy sweet potatoes with savory ground meat and vibrant vegetables. This dish is not only hearty but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Cozy up with a slice tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 2.5 lbs sweet potatoes boiled and mashed (about 4 large)
• 3 Tbsp avocado oil
• 1 large yellow onion
• 5 large cloves garlic minced
• 2 large carrots chopped
• 2 lbs ground lamb or beef
• 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 Tbsp liquid aminos
• ⅓ cup water or beef broth
• 1 cup green peas
• 2 cups spinach
• 1 tsp sea salt to taste

Instructions

 

• Chop the sweet potatoes into rounds that are about 2 inches thick and place them in a pot. Fill the pot with water, then bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil the potatoes until very soft when poked with a fork, about 20 to 30 minutes. Note: you can prepare the rest of the recipe while the potatoes are cooking.
• Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the water and allow them to cool enough to handle. Once cool, remove the skins from the potatoes and mash them until creamy. Set aside.
• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
• Add the avocado oil to a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to brown, about 5 to 8 minutes.
• Move the onions off to one side of the skillet and add the ground meat, leaving it in its square hunk form. Allow the meat to brown on one side for 2 to 3 minutes, then flip it to the other side and brown for another 2 to 3 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the meat into smaller chunks and stir well.
• Add the carrots, garlic, vinegar, liquid aminos, and water. Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes to allow the mixture to cook and flavors to meld.
• Remove the lid and stir in the peas, spinach, and sea salt. Continue cooking uncovered for a few minutes to allow the sauce around the solids to thicken slightly.
• Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a large casserole dish. Spread the creamy mashed sweet potatoes over the meat mixture, making sure to cover it evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until everything is hot and slightly bubbly. The top should be golden and inviting.
• Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Easy Shepherds Pie with Sweet Potatoes!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
• Pairing: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the meat with lentils or plant-based ground meat.
• Extra Creaminess: For richer mashed sweet potatoes, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or dairy-free cream.

Keyword comfort food, healthy casserole, Shepherds Pie, Sweet Potatoes Recipe

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.