Unleash the thanksgiving leftover magic: shepherd’s pie turkey recipe

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of a classic shepherd’s pie with a tantalizing twist: the shepherd’s pie turkey recipe. This comforting dish combines tender turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich gravy that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal for a cold night or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this shepherd’s pie turkey recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Ingredients for the Perfect Shepherd’s Pie Turkey

For the Turkey Filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Turkey Filling:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and chicken broth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the liquid has reduced by half.

Making the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
4. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes and mash until smooth.

Creating the Gravy:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
4. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Assembling the Shepherd’s Pie:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread the turkey filling into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Top with the mashed potatoes.
4. Pour the gravy over the mashed potatoes.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Variations on the Shepherd’s Pie Turkey Recipe

• Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie: Replace the ground turkey with your favorite plant-based protein, such as lentils or tofu.
• Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie: Swap out the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist.
• Gluten-Free Shepherd’s Pie: Use gluten-free flour to make the gravy and mashed potatoes.
• Individual Shepherd’s Pies: Divide the filling and topping into individual ramekins for a smaller portion size.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the shepherd’s pie turkey with a side of green peas or roasted vegetables.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for extra flavor.
• Pair with a glass of red wine or a refreshing beer.

Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie Turkey Recipe

• Use high-quality ground turkey for a more flavorful filling.
• Don’t overcook the potatoes, as this will make the mashed potatoes gluey.
• Make the gravy ahead of time and reheat it before assembling the shepherd’s pie.
• Let the shepherd’s pie rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Wrapping Up: A Culinary Delight

Immerse yourself in the comforting flavors of this shepherd’s pie turkey recipe. With its tender turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy, this dish is a culinary masterpiece that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this shepherd’s pie turkey recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground beef for ground turkey in this recipe. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the type of ground beef used.

Q: How can I make the shepherd’s pie ahead of time?

A: You can make the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble the shepherd’s pie and bake according to the instructions.

Q: What is a good side dish to serve with shepherd’s pie turkey?

A: Green peas, roasted vegetables, or a side salad would pair well with this shepherd’s pie turkey recipe.