This Ham Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes topped with savory ham and veggies. It’s hearty, warm, and perfect for feeding a crowd!
Who wouldn’t love a meal that feels like a big hug? I usually add a sprinkle of cheese on top for that gooey goodness. You can’t go wrong with leftovers either—they taste even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for creamy mashed potatoes. If you want a quicker option, try frozen mashed potatoes, though fresh is always best!
Ham: Leftover ham works perfectly for this recipe, making it easy and budget-friendly. If you need a substitute, look for diced turkey or chicken for a lighter twist or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Peas: Frozen peas are great because they cook quickly. However, you can also use fresh peas when they’re in season or substitute with green beans for a different texture and flavor.
Carrots: Diced fresh carrots add nice color and sweetness. If you don’t have them on hand, you can use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience, or even a can of drained corn!
Broth: Chicken broth gives a rich flavor, but vegetable broth or even water can work if you’re vegetarian. Homemade broth adds extra depth, so consider that if you have time.
How Do You Get Creamy Mashed Potatoes Every Time?
Making great mashed potatoes is all about technique. Start with boiling the potatoes in salted water until they are very tender. It usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- After draining, mash them while they’re still hot. This ensures fluffiness.
- Warm up your milk and butter before adding them in. Cold dairy can make the potatoes gummy.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t overmix; a little bit of lumps can add character!
How to Make Ham Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tbsp butter
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes for baking. In total, you should plan for about 45-50 minutes to have this warm and comforting dish ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when your pie is ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Take the peeled and chopped potatoes and boil them in a large pot of salted water. Let them cook for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender. Once done, drain the potatoes well.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
In the same pot, mash the drained potatoes with the milk, butter, salt, and pepper until they are smooth and creamy. You want them to be fluffy! Set your mashed potatoes aside for now.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and carrots. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they soften up a bit.
5. Add Ham and Peas:
Next, stir in the diced ham and frozen peas. Give it another two minutes of cooking to warm everything through nicely.
6. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and keep stirring for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring until the mixture thickens into a gravy. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, simmering for 3-4 minutes.
7. Assemble the Pie:
Transfer the ham and vegetable mixture into a cast iron skillet or a baking dish of your choice. Evenly spread the creamy mashed potatoes over the top. Use a fork to create some ridges; they’ll get crispy and golden while baking!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place your Shepherd’s Pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish with your family and friends!
Can I Use Leftover Ham for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked ham is perfect for this dish and adds great flavor. Just make sure it’s diced into small pieces for even distribution.
What Can I Substitute for Milk and Butter in the Mashed Potatoes?
You can use dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk and plant-based butter for a vegan version. Just ensure they’re unsweetened products for the best flavor!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, layer them together and follow the baking instructions!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Enjoy!