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Miniature shepherd’s pies are a delightful and hearty dish perfect for individual servings. Using muffin tins makes the preparation easy and ensures each pie is perfectly portioned. This guide will walk you through the steps to prepare and bake these tasty treats.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the filling by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for a few more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
While the filling cools slightly, prepare the mashed potatoes. If not already prepared, boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper for flavor.
Assembling the Mini Pies
Lightly grease a muffin tin. Spoon a layer of mashed potatoes into each cup, creating a small well in the center. Fill the well with the meat mixture, then top with another layer of mashed potatoes to cover the filling.
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each mini pie for a cheesy crust. Dot with a small piece of butter for extra richness.
Baking and Serving
Bake the mini shepherd’s pies in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
These miniature shepherd’s pies are perfect for individual servings at family dinners, parties, or school lunches. They are easy to prepare ahead of time and reheat beautifully.