Name: Funeral Potatoes Shepherd's Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3/4 cup sour cream; 1/3 cup whole milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 lb ground beef or lamb; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Delicious Funeral Potatoes Shepherd's Pie topped with creamy cheese and crispy edges.

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When you embark on a culinary adventure in your kitchen, there’s something magical about creating a dish that whisks you right back to comforting family gatherings and warm, nostalgic memories. Funeral Potatoes Shepherd’s Pie envelops you in a cozy embrace with each forkful, merging creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a savory filling of hearty ground meat and vibrant vegetables. The brush of golden, crispy cornflakes on top adds a delightful crunch, taking every bite to a new level of deliciousness.

Imagine the aroma wafting through your home—rich, buttery, and savory, as the mix of ground beef or lamb simmers gently with spices, filling the kitchen with warmth. You can almost hear the laughter from family and friends as they gather around the table, plates piled high, eager to dig into this unique twist on a classic shepherd’s pie. Each slice reveals layers of flavor and texture, creating an irresistible dish that beckons for second servings.

Great comfort food not only satisfies hunger but also evokes feelings of love and togetherness. As you lift your fork, the smooth, creamy layer of mashed potatoes gives way to the meaty center bursting with juicy flavor. This dish will quickly become a family favorite, perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to special occasions, and it’s sure to be the highlight of any potluck.

Why You’ll Love This Funeral Potatoes Shepherd’s Pie

This delightful shepherd’s pie doesn’t just fill your stomach; it warms your heart. The creamy russet potatoes paired with melted cheddar cheese create a creamy, dreamy topping that holds its own, contrasting wonderfully with the savory, spiced filling below. The combination of ground beef or lamb with a medley of frozen vegetables offers a robust flavor profile, bolstered by the earthiness of thyme and rosemary that lingers pleasantly on your palate.

Whether it’s the comfort of a weeknight meal or a centerpiece dish at a gathering, this recipe stands out. The familiarity of classic comfort food meets a surprising twist, making it adaptable for different tastes and preferences. When you serve it, you create memories around the table, bringing people together through great food. What could be better than that?

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create your masterpiece, gather some essential kitchen tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you will need:

Large Pot: A sturdy pot for boiling potatoes ensures even cooking and easy mashing.
Skillet: A good-quality skillet is essential for sautéing vegetables and browning meat until it reaches that perfect level of tender juiciness.
Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish lets you neatly layer your ingredients while allowing for even baking.
Potato Masher: This handy tool will help achieve that creamy, lump-free consistency of your mashed potatoes with ease.
Mixing Spoon: A strong mixing spoon is necessary for combining the meat and vegetable mixture and to spread the mashed potatoes evenly.

Practical preparation tips include peeling the potatoes while they are cold and rinsing them before boiling to avoid excess starch. When mashing, ensure your butter is at room temperature for ease of mixing, creating a lovely creamy texture.

Ingredients for Funeral Potatoes Shepherd’s Pie

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: Using russet potatoes yields the fluffiest mashed potatoes.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the milk.
3/4 cup sour cream: Provides a delightful tang that enhances flavor and creaminess.
1/3 cup whole milk: Ensures the potatoes stay smooth and luscious; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for extra creaminess.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Elevates the dish with sharpness and melty goodness.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle hint of tangy warmth.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Introduces a touch of spice.
1 lb ground beef or lamb: Juicy meat provides the heartiness; choose lamb for a more traditional flavor.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with vibrant flavor.
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: Convenient and colorful; peas, carrots, and corn blend wonderfully.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds umami richness that rounds out the dish.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Gives a salty, savory depth of flavor.
1/2 cup beef or chicken broth: Keeps the filling moist and flavorful.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme and rosemary: Notes of warmth and earthiness spice up this dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonal for every cook’s palate.
2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed: Creates the signature crispy topping.
2 tablespoons melted butter: Coats the cornflakes for extra richness and crispiness.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The perfect crown to your crispy topping.

Feel free to customize by adding different vegetables or using ground turkey for a leaner option.

How to Make Funeral Potatoes Shepherd’s Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with a touch of butter or cooking spray to ensure your pie releases easily post-baking.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes. Drain thoroughly.

Step 3: Mash to Creamy Perfection

While the potatoes are still warm, mash them with the butter, sour cream, whole milk, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth and fluffy texture. It’s okay to sneak a taste. You may find yourself indulging in a spoonful or two!

Step 4: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef or lamb. Brown for about 5–7 minutes and then drain excess fat. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent—about 3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Vegetables and Flavor

Next, introduce the frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, letting it simmer gently for 5 minutes. The aroma is going to be irresistible!

Step 6: Layer It Up

Spread your meat and vegetable mixture evenly across the greased baking dish. Smoothly spread the creamy mashed potato mixture over the top, ensuring it covers the filling completely.

Step 7: Add the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine crushed cornflakes with melted butter until the flakes are well-coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the mashed potatoes, creating an inviting, crunchy top, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Carefully place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the filling bubbles at the edges like a happy little cauldron.

Step 9: Allow It to Rest

Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set, making for cleaner servings.

Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips

Make-ahead: This dish is a dream for meal prep. Assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Cooking alternatives: For a delicious alternative, consider using an air fryer. Prepare the filling the same way and then cook at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes; this produces a beautiful crust.

Customization ideas: Swap in your favorite cheese (a pepper jack adds a bit of spice!) or try adding some mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the potatoes, resulting in gummy mashed potatoes. Always opt for fork-tender, and do not reboil after draining.

Ensure not to overcrowd the skillet when browning meat; this leads to steaming rather than browning, which could affect the overall flavor.

Finally, let the dish rest for a full 10 minutes before cutting. This crucial step is what allows for perfect slices.

What to Serve With Funeral Potatoes Shepherd’s Pie

Pair your wonderful shepherd’s pie with:

Simple Green Salad: A light salad balances the richness.
Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant, crunchy and an excellent side for added nutrients.
Garlic Bread: The ultimate comfort food combo!
Apple Sauce: Sweetness enhances the savory notes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A crispy side for added depth.
Cornbread: A sweet, buttery side that harmonizes perfectly with the dish.
Crusty Baguette: Perfect for scooping up every last bite!
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy touch that refreshes the palate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

This dish is perfect for leftovers! Store any remaining shepherd’s pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully! Just ensure to wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and it’ll be good for up to 2 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.

Estimated Nutrition Information

Per serving (approximate values):

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g

(Note: Values may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.)

FAQs

What are funeral potatoes?
Funeral potatoes refer to a comforting casserole dish, traditionally made with cheesy potatoes and sometimes a creamy sauce, often served at gatherings. This shepherd’s pie variation marries that concept with the classic meat pie.

Can I use other meats?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken offers a lighter option, making this dish versatile for various dietary preferences.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, Funeral Potatoes Shepherd’s Pie freezes well. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to maintain its quality.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute meat with lentils or a meat alternative, and ensure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

How can I spice it up?
Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture or some chopped jalapeños for a delightful kick.

Conclusion

As you tuck into a warm, steaming slice of Funeral Potatoes Shepherd’s Pie, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re participating in a heartwarming experience. The delicious combination of creamy, cheesy potatoes and flavorful filling creates a succulent dish that invites you to gather around with loved ones. Everyone will crave a second helping, and the joy of sharing this culinary delight will linger in your memory long after the last bite. So roll up those sleeves, gather your ingredients, and throw a delicious dinner party—your friends and family will thank you!

Hi, I’m Clara!

I'm a food lover and a firm believer that anyone can learn to cook with a little curiosity and courage. My story with food didn’t begin in a tiny apartment with a two-burner stove and a stack of cookbooks from the local library. I was broke and desperate to make something anything that felt like home.

About Me

Why You’ll Love This Funeral Potatoes Shepherd’s Pie

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Ingredients for Funeral Potatoes Shepherd’s Pie