MASHED POTATO PIE

Mashed Potato Pie is a comforting, savory dish that combines the creamy richness of mashed potatoes with a flavorful, hearty filling. It’s similar to a shepherd’s pie, but with a fluffier, buttery mashed potato topping that’s golden and slightly crispy on the outside. The base is typically filled with a delicious mixture of ground meat and vegetables, but you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. It’s perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes or creating a cozy, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. This dish works wonderfully as a main course or as a side dish for larger meals.

Ingredients:

For the mashed potato topping:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup milk or cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional for topping)

For the filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
• 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the mashed potatoes: Boil the diced potatoes in salted water for about 10-15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Cook the filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add vegetables and seasoning: Stir in the diced carrots and peas, followed by the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 8-10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Assemble the pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the meat and vegetable mixture into a greased pie dish or baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, covering the filling completely. For an extra treat, sprinkle shredded cheese over the mashed potatoes.
5. Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If you want a crispier top, you can broil the pie for the last 3-4 minutes of baking.
6. Serve: Allow the mashed potato pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s perfect on its own or with a fresh green salad on the side.

This Mashed Potato Pie is the ultimate comfort food, offering creamy mashed potatoes with a rich, savory filling that makes it a satisfying and wholesome meal for any day of the week!