This Ham Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish filled with tender ham, mixed veggies, and a creamy sauce, all topped with fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Honestly, it’s such a fun way to use up leftover ham. I love seeing my family dive into their servings with big smiles. It’s perfect for cozy dinners together! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. They mash well and hold flavor beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, you can use frozen mashed potatoes as a time saver!
Ham: Diced ham is the star of this recipe. If you don’t have ham, you can swap it for cooked turkey or chicken. Smoked turkey works well too for that extra flavor.
Ground Beef or Lamb: This optional addition adds depth. If you prefer not to use meat, consider adding lentils or mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian option.
Milk: For creaminess in mashed potatoes, whole milk works great, but you can also use heavy cream for richness, or even a dairy-free milk like almond or oat if needed.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are perfect for flavor, but feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Just chop them finely and use a little extra!
How Do You Achieve Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Getting those mashed potatoes just right can make all the difference. Here’s how to ensure they’re fluffy and flavorful:
- Start by boiling the potatoes in salted water; this infuses flavor while cooking.
- Once they’re tender, drain them well. Avoid excess moisture which can make them gummy.
- Mash the potatoes thoroughly, then add butter and warm milk. Mixing while warm keeps them smooth.
- Taste and adjust with more milk or seasoning as needed until you achieve your desired creaminess!
Remember, over-mixing can make them gluey, so just mix until smooth!
How to Make Ham Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk (adjust for desired creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb (optional for extra meatiness)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup carrot, finely diced (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ham Shepherd’s Pie takes about 40-50 minutes total to prepare. Expect around 15-20 minutes for prepping ingredients and cooking, plus 20-25 minutes for baking in the oven. It’s perfect for a hearty weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your shepherd’s pie will bake evenly and be deliciously golden on top.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, add the peeled and chopped potatoes along with enough salted water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil and let the potatoes cook until they are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain them well.
3. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
In the same pot (or a mixing bowl if you prefer), add your drained potatoes, butter, and milk. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
4. Prepare the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing.
5. Add the Meat:
Now, mix in the diced ham and ground beef or lamb (if you’re using it). Cook until the meat is nicely browned and fully cooked through. It’s good to keep stirring so nothing sticks to the pan!
6. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings:
Next, stir in the frozen peas and diced carrots (if you’re using them). Mix in the tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Let this mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens a bit. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper!
7. Assemble the Pie:
Transfer the hearty meat and vegetable mixture into a cast-iron skillet or an ovenproof dish. Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the top, spreading them evenly. Use a fork to create some fun ridges on the surface—this will help to make the topping nice and crispy in the oven.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop your assembled pie into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown and slightly crisp. This is when the kitchen will start smelling heavenly!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. To finish, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it up warm and enjoy your delicious Ham Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Leftover Ham for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover ham is perfect for this dish and adds great flavor. Just make sure to dice it into small pieces so it blends well with the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Shepherd’s Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the pie in advance and refrigerate it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef or Lamb?
If you prefer not to use beef or lamb, you can omit it entirely or substitute with lentils, mushrooms, or even some chopped vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
