Shepherds Pie Cauliflower Mash (Printable Version)

Savory ground meat base topped with creamy cauliflower mash creates a lighter, comforting main dish.

# Ingredient List:

→ For the Filling

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 carrots, diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1.1 lbs ground lamb or beef
07 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
08 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
09 - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
10 - 3.4 fl oz beef or vegetable broth
11 - 1 cup frozen peas
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste
13 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

→ For the Cauliflower Mash Topping

14 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
15 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
16 - 1/4 cup milk or cream
17 - Salt and black pepper to taste
18 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add cauliflower florets, and cook for 10-12 minutes until very tender. Drain thoroughly.
02 - While cauliflower cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
03 - Mix in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce if using, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Add peas and cook for 3-4 minutes until mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
04 - Transfer drained cauliflower to a food processor. Add butter, milk or cream, salt, pepper, and Parmesan if using. Blend until smooth and creamy.
05 - Spoon meat filling into a 2-quart baking dish. Spread cauliflower mash evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until topping is lightly golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Lighter comfort food: Cauliflower mash replaces traditional potato topping, keeping carbohydrates low without sacrificing creaminess.
  • Gluten-free friendly: Naturally gluten-free when you choose a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
  • Full of flavor: A savory filling of ground lamb or beef, aromatic herbs, tomato paste, and vegetables makes every bite deeply satisfying.
  • Great for meal prep: This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Family-friendly: A crowd-pleasing classic that works for both adults and children alike.
02 -
  • Drain cauliflower well: Excess moisture in the mash can make it watery — drain thoroughly and let steam escape before blending.
  • Don't rush the browning: Allow the meat to brown properly for deeper, richer flavor in the filling.
  • Reduce the filling if needed: If the mixture looks too liquid before baking, simmer uncovered for a couple of extra minutes to thicken.
  • Top with paprika or cheese: A sprinkle of paprika or extra Parmesan before baking gives the mash a beautifully golden, flavorful crust.
  • Rest before serving: Let the pie rest for 10 minutes after baking so the layers set and portions hold together neatly.
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