How do I make mini shepherd’s pies from scratch?

To make mini shepherd’s pies, start by cooking ground lamb or beef with chopped onions, garlic, and vegetables like peas and carrots. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme or rosemary. Spoon the meat mixture into greased muffin tins or ramekins, then top each with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes. You can add grated cheese on top if desired. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are golden and the filling is bubbling. This recipe serves as a perfect individual portion meal with balanced flavors.

What ingredients can I use as a vegetarian alternative in mini shepherd’s pies?

For a vegetarian mini shepherd’s pie, replace the meat with plant-based options like lentils, mushrooms, or a medley of diced root vegetables such as carrots, celery, and zucchini. Cook these with vegetable broth and season with herbs like thyme or sage. Using a vegetable mashed potato or sweet potato topping keeps it traditional and flavorful. This provides a protein-rich, hearty dish suitable for vegetarians without losing the classic comfort-food appeal.

Can mini shepherd’s pies be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, mini shepherd’s pies can be prepared in advance. Assemble the pies with meat and mashed potato layers, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Before serving, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through and golden on top. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This makes mini shepherd’s pies a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.

What are some tips for making mashed potatoes creamy for topping mini shepherd’s pies?

To achieve creamy mashed potatoes for mini shepherd’s pies, start with starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Boil until tender, then mash with warm milk or cream and butter for richness. Avoid over-mixing to keep them fluffy rather than gluey. Season with salt and a touch of black pepper. For extra flavor, you can add garlic powder or grated Parmesan. Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes create an appealing topping that browns well during baking.

How many mini shepherd’s pies does a typical recipe make, and how many people does it serve?

A typical recipe for mini shepherd’s pies yields about 12 individual-sized portions using a standard muffin tin. This usually serves 4 to 6 people, depending on appetite and whether the pies are accompanied by side dishes like a salad or steamed vegetables. They are ideal for portion control, appetizers, or a main course when paired with complementary sides. Adjust the recipe quantities as needed for larger gatherings.

Mini Shepherds Pies Recipe For Savory Individual Meals

Name: Mini Shepherds Pies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 package of refrigerated pie crust (containing two 9-inch crusts); – 1/2 pound (approximately 225 grams) lean ground beef; – 1 ounce (about 28 grams) onion soup mix; – 1 tablespoon flour; – 3/4 cup (180 ml) beef broth; – 1 cup (about 150 grams) frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, and carrots); – 1 package prepared mashed potatoes

Description

🥧 Enjoy hearty, savory mini shepherds pot pies that are perfect individual meals packed with comforting flavors.
🍽️ These pies combine tender ground beef, rich vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes wrapped in flaky pie crusts for a satisfying dish.

Ingredients

– 1 package of refrigerated pie crust (containing two 9-inch crusts)

– 1/2 pound (approximately 225 grams) lean ground beef

– 1 ounce (about 28 grams) onion soup mix

– 1 tablespoon flour

– 3/4 cup (180 ml) beef broth

– 1 cup (about 150 grams) frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, and carrots)

– 1 package prepared mashed potatoes

Instructions

1-First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and get your ingredients ready, like chopping any veggies if needed. In a skillet, brown the 1/2 pound of lean ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely cooked through.

2-Next, mix in the 1 ounce of onion soup mix and 1 tablespoon of flour to help thicken things up. Then, add the 3/4 cup of beef broth and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables, stirring until everything blends together beautifully.

3-Once your filling is ready, spoon it into the pie crusts from your 1 package of refrigerated pie crust. Top each one with the prepared mashed potatoes from your 1 package, spreading it evenly for that classic look.

4-Bake them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until the tops are golden. Let them cool a bit before serving these little pies are perfect for individual meals that the whole family will enjoy.

Notes

🥧 Use lean beef to keep the filling healthier and less greasy.
🥄 Don’t overfill crusts to prevent spilling during baking.
⏲ Let pies cool briefly before removing from tins to keep their shape intact.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 mini pot pie
Calories: 220
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 500 milligrams
Fat: 10 grams
Saturated Fat: 4 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 5 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 22 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Protein: 10 grams
Cholesterol: 45 milligrams

Keywords: mini shepherds pot pies,individual pot pies,savory mini pies,comfort food