Welcome to the world of heartwarming comfort food! If you’ve ever strolled through the aisles of Costco and found yourself captivated by their scrumptious shepherd’s pie, then you’re in for a treat. This wholesome dish, with its tender meat, rich gravy, and fluffy mashed potato topping, is a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together at the dinner table. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this Costco shepherd’s pie recipe is straightforward to follow.
So roll up your sleeves and get ready to recreate this classic Costco favorite right in your own home. Let’s dive into the delightful journey of creating the perfect shepherd’s pie, Costco style!
What is Costco shepherd’s pie?
Costco shepherd’s pie is a classic British dish of tender mincemeat, savory vegetables, and fluffy mashed potato topping. It’s a hearty meal that’s sure to fill you up with warmth and comfort on those chilly winter nights. This Costco version is especially delicious; the thick gravy base gives it extra richness, while the light, golden-brown mashed potato top adds an irresistible crunch. It’s a savory twist on traditional shepherd’s pie that your whole family will love!
Why You’ll Love this Costco shepherd’s pie?
This Costco shepherd’s pie is a fantastic way to get your family excited about dinner. It packs plenty of flavor and nutrition, thanks to the wholesome ingredients like lean beef mince and nutrient-rich vegetables. Plus, it’s easy to make—it only takes 20 minutes of prep time before you can pop it in the oven. And with its irresistible golden topping and delicious combination of flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Serve it with a side salad for an extra pop of color, and see it becoming your absolute favorite dish of all time!
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Ingredients
- Ground beef or lamb: This is the main protein source in the dish. It creates a hearty and flavorful base that adds depth to the overall taste. The choice between beef and lamb can alter the flavor profile, with lamb offering a richer, gamey taste.
- Mashed Potatoes: They form the top layer of the Shepherd’s pie, providing a creamy, comforting contrast to the savory meat and vegetable filling underneath. The potatoes also get a nice golden crust when baked.
- Salt and Pepper: These are essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the other ingredients. Adjusting these to taste ensures the dish isn’t bland or overly salty.
- Onions: Onions add a sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish. They are a classic aromatic that is sautéed to provide a flavor foundation for the pie.
- Olive Oil: This is used to sauté the onions and ground meat. It not only prevents sticking but also enhances the flavor of the ingredients.
- Carrots: These add a sweet note and a bit of crunch to the dish. They also contribute to the overall healthiness of the dish by adding vitamins and fiber.
- Peas (frozen): Peas offer a slight sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish. They also provide additional texture and nutritional value.
- Butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy flavor to the mashed potatoes and helps create a golden, crispy top when the pie is baked.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce gives the dish a tangy, umami flavor that enhances the savoriness of the meat. It’s a key ingredient in traditional Shepherd’s Pie recipes.
- Corn (frozen): Corn kernels add a bit of sweetness and crunch to the dish. They also contribute to the colorful presentation of the pie.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is used to thicken the broth, creating a gravy-like sauce for the meat and vegetables. It ensures the filling is not too runny, which would make the pie soggy.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This initial step is crucial to ensure your savory meat and vegetable pie cooks evenly and to perfection.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Meat
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and ground beef or lamb, then cook until they become nicely browned, approximately 5 minutes. If necessary, drain any excess grease to maintain a balanced consistency.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Incorporate the carrots, corn, peas, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Continue to cook until the vegetables reach a tender, mouthwatering state, typically taking about 5 more minutes. To thicken the mixture and enhance flavors, add the flour, stirring it in carefully. Cook for an additional one to two minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken to perfection.
Step 4: Assemble in the Pie Dish
Transfer the beautifully seasoned meat and vegetable mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even distribution across the bottom. This step sets the foundation for your delectable pie.
Step 5: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
In a separate pot, boil the potatoes in salted water until they achieve a delightful tenderness, which usually takes around 15 minutes. Drain them, and then proceed to mash them with a touch of butter until they reach a creamy, dreamy consistency. The mashed potatoes are destined to be the crowning glory of your pie.
Step 6: Layer with Mashed Potatoes
With artistic finesse, spread the luxurious mashed potatoes over the top of the meat and vegetable mixture in the pie dish, ensuring an even and inviting layer.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the assembled pie into the preheated oven. Allow it to bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top acquires a tantalizing golden-brown hue. This final touch not only adds visual appeal but also promises a delightful textural contrast.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once removed from the oven, exercise a bit of patience and let the pie cool slightly before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together harmoniously. Then, cut yourself a generous slice of this comforting masterpiece and enjoy the delicious culmination of your culinary endeavor.
Notes
- Use freshly ground beef or lamb for maximum flavor.
- For additional richness, add a dash of cream to the mashed potatoes before spreading them on top of the pie.
- This recipe can also be served as individual shepherd’s pies—simply divide the filling and mashed potato layers among six ramekins and bake until golden brown.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the beef or lamb with mushrooms and/or lentils.
- To reduce the fat content of the dish, use low-fat butter and skimmed milk for the mashed potatoes.
- Feel free to customize this recipe—add your favorite seasonings or vegetables to create a unique flavor profile.
Storage Tips
Shepherd’s pie can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it into an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) and bake until the filling is hot and bubbly. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave. The pie also freezes well for up to two months. To thaw, bring it back to room temperature before reheating.
For a special treat, top individual servings with cheese or a poached egg before baking in the oven. The added richness will take your Shepherd’s Pie experience to the next level.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
- Shepherd’s Pie is best served alongside a crisp, leafy green salad or steamed vegetables. The contrast in flavors and textures offers an enjoyable balance to the meal.
- A glass of dry white wine also pairs nicely, enhancing the savory spices in the dish.
- For a heartier presentation, serve with roasted potatoes or buttered egg noodles. The starchiness of these accompaniments adds substance to the meal, making it an ideal option for a cozy family dinner or special occasion.
- For a classic English vibe, serve with roasted parsnips and boiled carrots, mashed potatoes, and gravy on the side. This traditional combination provides a nostalgic take on Shepherd’s Pie that will transport you to the British countryside.
What other substitute can I use in Costco shepherd’s pie?
- If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, a good substitute is a mixture of balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and brown sugar.
- For an even healthier version of Shepherd’s Pie, try using tofu in place of the meat and adding extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
- For vegan or dairy-free Shepherd’s Pie, use plant-based milk and oil instead of butter when preparing the mashed potatoes.
- Try a mix of paprika, cumin, coriander, and chili powder for a kick of flavor. Enjoy your homemade Shepherd’s Pie creation!
Costco Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of premium ground beef or lamb a savory delight from well-pastured livestock
- 8 cups of velvety mashed potatoes a cloud-like canvas for the savory masterpiece
- Salt and pepper to taste a symphony of seasoning for perfection
- 2 onions finely minced for a fragrant dance in the dish
- 4 tablespoons of artisanal olive oil a golden elixir for culinary alchemy
- 4 carrots thinly sliced into vibrant orange ribbons
- 2 cups of frozen peas plump and vibrant like emerald jewels
- 4 tablespoons of golden butter a velvety kiss for richness
- 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire essence a savory note for depth
- 2 cups of frozen corn the golden kernels from flourishing fields
- 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour a delicate sprinkle for thickness
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and ground beef or lamb; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Add carrots, corn, peas, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, approximately 5 more minutes. Stir in flour and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a 9-inch pie dish, spreading it evenly.
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15 minutes), then drain and mash with butter until creamy. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the meat and vegetable mixture in an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together harmoniously.
Notes
- Use freshly ground beef or lamb for maximum flavor.
- For additional richness, add a dash of cream to the mashed potatoes before spreading them on top of the pie.
- This recipe can also be served as individual shepherd’s pies—simply divide the filling and mashed potato layers among six ramekins and bake until golden brown.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the beef or lamb with mushrooms and/or lentils.
- To reduce the fat content of the dish, use low-fat butter and skimmed milk for the mashed potatoes.
- Feel free to customize this recipe—add your favorite seasonings or vegetables to create a unique flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: What if I don’t have ground beef or lamb?
A: Ground turkey makes a great substitute for ground beef or lamb in this recipe. You may also opt to use mushrooms, lentils, or tofu as vegan and vegetarian alternatives.
Q: Can I make Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Shepherd’s Pie can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, you can also place it into a sealed container and freeze it for up to two months.
Q: What is the best way to reheat Shepherd’s Pie?
A: To get an optimal texture and flavor, we suggest reheating your Shepherd’s Pie in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and then place the dish inside for 25-30 minutes or until it’s hot and bubbly. If you’re reheating individual slices, a few minutes in the microwave should do the trick.
Q: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: For a healthier version of Shepherd’s Pie, opt for lean cuts of ground beef or turkey instead of fattier options. You can also use low-fat butter and skimmed milk when preparing the mashed potatoes. Additionally, try adding extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers to the filling for extra nutrients. For a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute plant-based milk and oil for the butter in the mashed potatoes. Finally, reduce added fat by avoiding cheese toppings and other similar ingredients.
Conclusion
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food that’s sure to bring the family together. Whether you opt for traditional beef and lamb or experiment with vegetarian ingredients, this dish will transport your taste buds on a delicious journey. Plus, this versatile recipe can be customized to suit any dietary needs or preferences. Also, it’s an excellent dish to make ahead of time and store for later.
With just a few simple steps, you can turn your kitchen into a cozy haven with the aroma of Shepherd’s Pie wafting through the air. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.