Diet and Fries

Indulge in the Cozy Comfort of Laura’s Lean Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

When it comes to holiday feasts and comforting dishes, Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy. This delicious casserole is the epitome of savory goodness, and today, we’re putting a wholesome twist on it with Laura’s Lean Ground Beef – a protein choice that aligns with what I’m looking for.

Why Laura’s Lean?

The choice of protein is paramount in creating a dish that’s not only scrumptious but also ethically sourced. That’s why I turned to Laura’s Lean Ground Beef, with its impressive 96% lean and 4% fat profile. What sets Laura’s Lean apart is its commitment to sourcing beef from suppliers who raise their cattle without the use of added hormones or antibiotics. Plus, they ensure their cattle are always vegetarian fed, which is something that resonates deeply with me.

Now, let’s dive into this delightful Shepherd’s Pie casserole recipe, complete with a rich, hearty pie filling and creamy mashed potatoes.

**Shepherd’s Pie Ingredients:**

*Pie Filling*

– 1 lb Laura’s Lean Ground Beef (92% Lean & 8% Fat)

– 1 tbsp olive oil

– 1 cup chopped onions

– 1 1/2 tsp salt

– 1/2 tsp pepper

– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup red blend wine (Cabernet or Pinot Grigio)

– 1/2 cup beef broth

– 3 tbsp coconut aminos

– 1/2 cup carrots

– 1/2 cup frozen peas

– Optional: 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and parsley for garnish

*Mashed Potatoes*

– 2/3 cup water

– 1/4 tsp salt

– 1 tbsp butter

– 1/3 cup milk

– 2/3 cup mashed potato mix

**Directions:**

*For the Ground Beef Filling:*

1. Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat, then add the olive oil and onions. Sauté the onions and carrots until they become tender.

2. Next, add the 1 lb of Laura’s Lean Ground Beef to the skillet, along with the salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Then, add the peas and coconut aminos, allowing them to simmer together. Finally, sprinkle the flour over the mixture to create a thick, savory base.

3. Transfer the ground beef mixture to a baking dish, ensuring an even layer, and consider adding that optional 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness. 

4. Now, it’s time for the crowning glory. Top off the meat filling with the mashed potatoes you’re about to prepare. 

5. Pop the entire creation into a preheated oven set at 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown.

*For the Mashed Potatoes:*

1. Prepare the mashed potatoes by following the instructions on your favorite boxed potato mix. Typically, you’ll start by combining water, salt, and butter in a pot on the stove.

2. Bring this mixture to a boil, then remove it from the heat.

3. Now, add cold milk and stir in the potato mix gently until the potatoes reach the desired creamy consistency. These will be the perfect topping for your Shepherd’s Pie.

There you have it! A Shepherd’s Pie that’s not only comforting and delicious but also made with the conscious choice of Laura’s Lean Ground Beef. Enjoy this heartwarming meal at your next holiday gathering, and savor the flavor while supporting ethical and sustainable beef sourcing.