Shepard's Pie

Happy St. Patrick's Day friends! Of course as a ginger there is some Irish running through these veins and I love to celebrate it! St Patrick's Day is one of my favorite holidays, mostly because I love a cold beer, dancing like a fool & I look good in green. 😉 I have celebrated in many ways but always make time to fit a Shepard's Pie into the mix.

I must warn you, it is very Americanized due to my own experience and family's personal taste. However, I've shared it with quite a few people over the years and have never had any complaints of clean dishes. Try it and let me know what you think. 

What You Need 

4 Carrots, petite diced 

4-6 Stalks of Celery, petite diced 

1 Can of peas, drained

1/2 of Large Onion, petite diced

2 lbs Ground Beef 

4 lbs Red Skin Potatoes 

4-6 oz Cheddar Cheese, shredded 

3/4 Stick of Butter 

2 1/2 Cups of Milk 

1/8 Cup of Beef Stock 

Garlic 

Salt 

Pepper

Parsley 

How To Do It

Start by boiling a pot of water with cleaned whole potatoes inside. 

Then take your celery and carrots into a medium pan with 2 tablespoons of butter. Let them simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are soft.  Once done, set aide. 

Next, take the onions, broth and salt and pepper to taste in the pan on medium until brown. Then and beef until cooked brown. Once everything is done, add vegetable mixture back to pan with peas. 

At this point, the potatoes should be softened enough to drain and slice. If so, place back into stock pot with milk, butter, salt, pepper, garlic and parsley to taste. Bring to a boil for about 10 minutes, may need to add more butter or milk if drying. Once soft enough to mash, go ahead and make them into a mashed potato topper. 

When all the components are complete, break out your 9x13 casserole dish. Start with your meat mixture on bottom. Next make an even layer or potatoes. Place in the oven at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Then, spread shredded cheese on top and place back in oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown. 

Like I said, not extremely authentic but it's a fun way to celebrate and it's bang friendly. Mr. H was begging for more! 

Little St Pats cuteness...