Delicious Greek Shepherd’s Pie Recipe You’ll Love!

Are you tired of the same old dinner recipes? Look no further than this delicious Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe. It’s a twist on the classic English Cottage Pie and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Made with layers of flavorful minced beef, savory lamb, finely chopped onions, and garlic cloves, this dish is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It’s then topped with creamy mashed potatoes infused with tangy feta cheese and edam cheese.

The best part? This dish is easy to make and can be made ahead of time for those busy weeknights. Not only does it provide comfort and warmth during the chillier days, but it’s also a hearty meal that your whole family will enjoy.

So why not switch up your dinner game and try this Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe tonight? It may just become a new household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Shepherd's Pie
Greek Shepherd’s Pie

Are you tired of the same old boring shepherd’s pie? Need a little something to spice up your dinner routine? Well, look no further! This Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe is just what you need.

First and foremost, let’s talk about flavor. This dish explodes with a variety of mouth-watering flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. The combination of juicy lamb mince or lean ground beef mixed with finely chopped onions, garlic cloves and aromatic spices like parsley and thyme results in a classic Greek-style shepherd’s pie that is bursting with flavor. The addition of chopped tomatoes brings a deep richness to the dish that makes it even more satisfying.

But why stop there? We can’t forget about the creamy mashed potatoes on top, loaded with melted Edam cheese that gives a savory kick that will make you want to savor each bite. And for those who prefer even more complexity and richness, the option of using feta cheese adds an additional layer of flavor that cannot be missed.

Next up is the versatility of this recipe. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to feed your family on a chilly evening or want to impress guests at your next dinner party, this Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe fits the bill. It can easily be personalized to fit individual tastes and preferences by switching up the meat used or adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Lastly, but not least, we have ease of preparation. This dish doesn’t require any fancy techniques or equipment; all you need is one pot and an oven to create this delicious shepherd’s pie masterpiece. With just a little bit of effort, you can achieve stunning results.

In conclusion, with its irresistible flavors, versatility and easy preparation, there are plenty of reasons to love this Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe. So why not give it a try today and experience for yourself what makes this dish so special? Trust me – your taste buds will thank you later!

Ingredient List

 Get ready to dive into a bite of the Mediterranean with this savory Greek Shepherd's Pie.
Get ready to dive into a bite of the Mediterranean with this savory Greek Shepherd’s Pie.

Here’s what you’ll need to make Greek Shepherd’s Pie Recipe:

For the base:

  • 1 pound of lean ground beef
  • 1 large onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 can of chopped tomatoes (14 oz)
  • ½ cup of red wine
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the mashed potatoes:

  • 2 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • ½ cup of Greek yogurt
  • 2 cups of milk
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter

For the topping:

  • 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 cup of grated Edam cheese

The Recipe How-To

 Layers of golden mashed potatoes and perfectly seasoned lamb will make your mouth water.
Layers of golden mashed potatoes and perfectly seasoned lamb will make your mouth water.

Before we get into the how-to of making this mouth-watering Greek Shepherd’s Pie, let me tell you a quick story about how I first came across this recipe. I was on vacation in Greece, wandering around the small village of Santorini when the aroma of a nearby restaurant caught my attention. It led me to their kitchen where I saw this heavenly dish being prepared. As soon as I tried it, I knew that I had to recreate it back home – and now, here we are!

Preparation

Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F or 190°C.

Next, take a large pot and fill it with water. Add in 2 pounds of peeled and cut russet potatoes (cut into 2-inch pieces) and boil them for around 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook.

While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the filling. Heat up some olive oil in a pan and add 1 finely chopped onion along with 3 chopped garlic cloves until they both turn lightly brown.

Add in 1 pound of lamb shoulder cut into bite-size pieces and 1 pound of lean ground beef into the onion-garlic mix until nicely browned.

Now mix in one can (14 oz) of chopped tomatoes, ½ cup of red wine, zest from 1 lemon, and add salt and pepper to taste.

Let the mixture simmer for around five minutes so that all ingredients are fully cooked through.

Once cooked, remove the mixture from the heat and add in around 50g of chopped parsley along with roughly crumbled Feta cheese.

Now onto layering:

Create a bed of roughly mashed potatoes at the bottom of your baking dish – this will be your “crust.” Add half of your meat filling on top, patting it down firmly to compress it evenly.

Repeat another layer with mashed potatoes again, followed by the remainder of meat filling as its top layer.

Add grated Edam cheese (around 2 cups) on top of everything for an extra cheesy crunch.

Baking Time

Place your baking dish into the preheated oven now, set its timer for 30-35 minutes and allow it to cook patiently.

Once done, take out your delicious creation from the oven carefully with oven mitts and let it cool before servings.

Congratulations! You have just made a piece of Greece in your own kitchen! This Greek-style Shepherd’s Pie will leave everyone satisfied after dinner.

Substitutions and Variations

 Bring a taste of Greece right to your kitchen with this flavorful recipe.
Bring a taste of Greece right to your kitchen with this flavorful recipe.

One of the appealing things about this Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe is that it lends itself to several easy variations and substitutions. Whether you are looking to try something different or need to work with ingredients you have on hand, there are many ways to customize this dish.

Here are some ideas:

– Swap the ground beef for lamb mince: While the recipe calls for lean ground beef, you can also use lamb mince instead. This variation will give the shepherd’s pie a more traditional Greek flavor profile.

– Use feta cheese instead of Edam: If you prefer the tanginess of feta over Edam cheese, swap it in for a fresher taste that complements the dish’s flavors.

– Add veggies: If you want to include more vegetables in your diet, consider adding chopped spinach, zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. They will add a colorful and nutritious dimension to your shepherd’s pie.

– Substitute mashed sweet potatoes: If you want to make this dish even healthier and flavorful, swap regular mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes source more gasp-worthy flavor and bring the edges closer to homecountry cuisine from all around Greece

– Use other meats: This recipe can also be made with other meats such as minced pork or chicken. For an even heartier taste experience, mix minced beef and pork together.

– Play with spices: Be sure to experiment with different seasoning blends like dried oregano, thyme or rosemary that will compliment any meat-driven or garden-centered version of this dee-lish shepherd pie.

Remember, cooking is all about creativity! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredient combinations, spices, and textures as you cook up your own signature version of this mouth-watering classic dish from Greece.

Serving and Pairing

 This dish is perfect for any occasion. It's hearty enough to fill you up and flavorful enough to leave you wanting more.
This dish is perfect for any occasion. It’s hearty enough to fill you up and flavorful enough to leave you wanting more.

When it comes to serving this Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe, I always recommend serving it hot straight from the oven. The warm, savory flavors are at their best when they’re fresh out of the oven and ready to serve.

This dish is a complete meal on its own with a hearty balance of protein and carbohydrates, so it doesn’t necessarily need anything else to be served with it. You can add a simple side salad or roasted vegetables if you like, but it’s not necessary.

If you want to elevate your dining experience with this dish, consider pairing it with some red wine. The bold flavors of the lamb and beef go well with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.

For non-alcoholic options, you can pair this dish with a classic Greek yogurt dip or tzatziki sauce on the side. The tangy flavors of Greek yogurt pair perfectly with the savory meat and potatoes in this dish.

In conclusion, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require any fuss in presentation or pairing. Enjoy your Shepherd’s Pie greek style!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Who says you can't have comfort food while enjoying the flavors of the Mediterranean?
Who says you can’t have comfort food while enjoying the flavors of the Mediterranean?

Now, when it comes to meal prep and storing leftovers, you can never be too careful. This Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals and freezing for a busy weeknight.

If you’re planning on making this pie ahead of time, simply follow the recipe until step 6: baking instructions. Instead of putting it straight into the oven, cover it up with some plastic wrap and stick it in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to bake it, just pop it into the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until heated through.

Alternatively, if you would like to freeze the pie for later use, prepare everything up until Step 7: Mash the potatoes. Then instead of baking it, cover the dish tightly with foil and put it in the freezer. It will last there for up to three months.

When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before allowing it to bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for around an hour or until heated through and bubbling.

Storing leftover shepherd pie is also simple. Just make sure that you transfer it into an airtight container within two hours of cooking and refrigerate it immediately. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

When reheating leftovers, keep your microwave off as reheating in a microwave can cause uneven heating and sogginess. I always prefer reheating by oven or stove. To reheat using an oven or stove, simply transfer individual portions to an oven-safe dish or pan with a tablespoon of water covering them over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Tips for Perfect Results

 Whether it's for a family dinner or a potluck party, this recipe is sure to impress everyone with its taste and presentation.
Whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck party, this recipe is sure to impress everyone with its taste and presentation.

Now that you’ve got the recipe under your belt and have a straightforward understanding of how to make this delicious Greek Shepherd’s Pie, let me give you some tips to take it up a notch.

Firstly, when boiling the potatoes, make sure to add salt to the water before adding the potatoes. This not only seasons the potatoes from the inside out, but also helps them cook more quickly and evenly.

Secondly, when mashing the potatoes for the topping, use either a potato ricer or a food mill rather than a traditional masher. This makes achieving airy and light mashed potatoes easier and prevents them from getting too dense.

Thirdly, if you’re interested in a spicier version of this shepherd’s pie than what is called for in the recipe, try to add some chopped jalapeños or other chili peppers into the meat mixture. In case you’re not tolerant to spiciness, be careful and choose milder chilis that add flavor without overwhelming your taste buds.

Fourthly, When it comes to cheese selection, feta is not very melty and not ideal for topping a casserole-style dish like this Greek Shepherd’s Pie. Instead of using feta, I suggest using Edam cheese because it is easier to melt and gives a tasty cheesy topping.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to play around with substitutions and changes according to your taste preferences. Some examples of swaps include ground lamb instead of beef or Mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.

By following these tips & guidelines while enjoying cooking this beautiful Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe, you will undoubtedly create an impressive culinary masterpiece that everyone will remember.

FAQ

Now, let’s move on to the FAQ section. In this part, we’ll tackle some common questions about this Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a pro in the kitchen, it’s always important to clarify any doubts before starting a recipe. So, let’s dive right in and see what people are asking about this delicious dish.

How do you make Paula Deen shepherd’s pie?

For this recipe, you will need a mixture of vegetables, or niblet corn, totaling to one and a half cups. Additionally, two cans of tomato sauce weighing eight ounces each, a small onion, ground meat weighing one and a half pounds, half a cup of sour cream, twelve tablespoons of butter, one and a half cups of milk, and red new potatoes that have already been prepared and amount to eight to ten.

Why do people put ketchup on shepherd’s pie?

There’s a curious trend I’ve noticed – people putting ketchup on shepherd’s pie. Surprising as it may be, this condiment can actually bring out some great flavors in the beef mixture. Plus, it goes really well with mashed potatoes.

What is the difference between cottage pie and Cumberland pie?

Have you ever wondered about the contrasts between a Cumberland pie and a cottage pie? The primary distinction between the two is that the former utilizes chunks of beef instead of minced meat, whereas the latter contains the latter. Another distinguishing feature is the way that the top layer of the dish is prepared: while a cottage pie typically features a layer of mashed potatoes, a Cumberland pie has sliced potatoes arranged on top.

What is traditional shepherd’s pie made of?

Shepherd’s pie is a classic savoury dish consisting of minced lamb, vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes. The meat is cooked in a fragrant blend of softened onions, carrots, and celery, commonly referred to as a mirepoix in French cooking. This mixture is then enhanced with flavourful ingredients such as rich stock, tangy Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and aromatic bay leaves, which all come together to create a mouth-watering gravy.

Bottom Line

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In conclusion, this Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and comforting meal. The combination of flavorful lamb mince or lean ground beef, spices, vegetables, and mashed potatoes infused with Edam cheese will leave you feeling satisfied for days.

The versatility of this recipe makes it easy to add variations and substitutions. You can swap lamb mince for beef or turkey, add chopped spinach or finely chopped eggplant, or even use sweet potato instead of russet potato.

Additionally, this recipe is an excellent option for making ahead and reheating on busy weeknights when time is not your friend. Just pop it in the oven for 20-30 minutes, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal.

I hope that my tips and recommendations have been helpful in preparing this fantastic Greek Shepherd’s Pie recipe. Enjoy it at dinner parties, Sunday brunches or serve it as a weeknight dinner. Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of red wine or greek yogurt for an extra indulgence.

With its mouth-watering flavors and simple cooking process, this pie is undoubtedly going to be your go-to comfort food. Try it out now and thank me later!

Greek Shepherd's Pie

Greek Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

The simple, honest flavour and rib-sticking nature of this dish makes it good family food.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Keyword: < 4 Hours, Australian, Easy, One-Dish Meal, Potato, Vegetable, Weeknight
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Calories: 407.4kcal

Ingredients

  • 400 g lean ground beef (or substitute with beef mince if you prefer)
  • 2 medium onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
  • 400 g chopped tomatoes
  • salt and pepper, to season
  • cheese sauce
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup edam cheese, grated
  • 500 g potatoes, peeled, cut in 1cm slices
  • 1/4 cup edam cheese, grated

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 180°C.
  • Brown mince in a pan. Add onions and cook gently until soft. Stir in parsley and tomatoes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  • While mince is cooking, make cheese sauce. Heat oil in a small saucepan. Stir in flour. Cook gently for a minute. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously for a lump-free sauce. Stir in grated cheese.
  • Grease a 1 1/2 litre ovenproof dish. Place a layer of sliced potato in the bottom. Spoon a little meat sauce over potato, then top with another layer of potato. Continue layering in this manner until mixture is used. Finish with a layer of potato.
  • Pour cheese sauce over potato dish and gently shake dish so sauce works its way through. Top with extra cheese. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until potatoes are cooked. Serve with seasonal vegetables.

Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 450g | Calories: 407.4kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 26.3g | Fat: 17.7g | Saturated Fat: 6.2g | Cholesterol: 73.5mg | Sodium: 111.2mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g

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