Garden Fresh Shepherd’s Pie is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish, bursting with vibrant vegetables and lean ground turkey. Perfect for using up seasonal produce, this recipe brings a wholesome and hearty meal to the table.
The star of this dish is the ground turkey, offering a leaner alternative to traditional lamb. Olive oil is used to sauté the onion and garlic, which form the aromatic base. A medley of carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and peas add sweetness and color. Fresh spinach wilts down to add a nutritional boost. Tomato paste and chicken broth create a rich sauce, while dried thyme and rosemary infuse depth. Finally, a topping of creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheddar cheese makes it irresistibly golden and comforting.
This shepherd's pie pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. A crusty bread on the side helps scoop up every last bit of goodness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted root vegetables.
First, get your oven preheating to 400°F. This way, it's ready to go when you are. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, and once shimmering, toss in the onion and garlic. Stir them around until they’re soft and your kitchen smells wonderful.
Next, add the ground turkey. Cook it, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until it’s nicely browned. This typically takes about 5 minutes. Now, introduce the carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers to the party. Let them cook together for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
Add the peas, spinach, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Transfer this savory mixture into a baking dish. Spread your mashed potatoes evenly over the top, smoothing with a spatula. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese generously over the potatoes. Pop the dish into your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, adding a fresh, herby note.
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