Introduction
Comfort food at its finest, this hearty recipe brings together savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried minced onion
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 cup chicken or beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
3 cups mashed potatoes
Prep Time
Prep time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to gather your ingredients and get everything ready for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 30 minutes, with a total time of 40 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields enough for about 4 servings, making it an ideal choice for family meals or leftovers.
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with salt and dried minced onion until browned.
3. Add the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the chicken or beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a 9-inch pie plate or baking dish.
6. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with salt and dried minced onion until browned.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are softened.
Step 4: Simmer the Mixture
Stir in the chicken or beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a 9-inch pie plate or baking dish.
Step 6: Spread Mashed Potatoes
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture.
Step 7: Bake in the Oven
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Meat Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Note 2: Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other frozen vegetables, such as corn or green beans, for added flavor and nutrition.
Note 3: Mashed Potato Preparation
Make sure your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned for the best flavor balance.
Note 4: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 5: Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, for best texture.
Cook techniques
Brown the Meat
Cooking ground beef over medium heat until browned is essential for developing flavor. This process releases the natural fats and juices from the beef, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Soften Vegetables
Cooking the frozen peas and carrots until softened allows them to blend well into the filling. This step ensures that the vegetables are tender and flavorful, complementing the beef mixture.
Simmer the Mixture
Adding broth and Worcestershire sauce and letting the mixture simmer helps to meld the flavors together. This technique creates a rich and savory filling that is moist but not overly liquid.
Spread Mashed Potatoes
When spreading the mashed potatoes over the beef and vegetable mixture, ensure an even layer for consistent baking. This will help achieve a golden brown top and a comforting, creamy texture.
Bake to Perfection
Baking at 400°F (200°C) for the specified time allows the top of the dish to become golden brown and slightly crispy while the filling remains warm and flavorful. This technique enhances the dish’s presentation and texture.
FAQ
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables, but be sure to chop them into small pieces and cook them longer to ensure they soften appropriately.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce, a mixture of soy sauce and vinegar, or even a splash of barbecue sauce as a substitute.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture and the mashed potatoes in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Reheat from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Conclusion
This hearty dish combines ground beef and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The use of Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of flavor, while the frozen peas and carrots contribute both nutrition and color. Baking until golden brown provides a tantalizing finish that is sure to satisfy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Shepherd’s Pie
Replace ground beef with lamb for a traditional shepherd’s pie, using the same technique and ingredients.
Vegetarian Mash
Substitute ground beef with a mixture of lentils and mushrooms for a delicious plant-based option.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Bake
Mix shredded cheese into your mashed potatoes before spreading them over the beef mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Chili Mash
Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños to the beef mixture and topping with a layer of spicy mashed potatoes.
Chicken Pot Pie Variation
Swap ground beef for shredded chicken and add some chopped celery and corn for a chicken pot pie twist.
BBQ Beef Mash
Mix in some barbecue sauce with the beef for a smoky flavor profile and serve with a side of coleslaw.
