There’s something uniquely comforting about a classic shepherd’s pie. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, bringing smiles to everyone around the dinner table. This particular rendition elevates the traditional recipe by featuring lean ground turkey and an incredibly flavorful, rich sauce, all crowned with a generous layer of impossibly creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. Baked to golden perfection in a rustic cast iron skillet, this Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience – the ultimate comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to master. Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy night in or a festive family gathering.
Looking to round out your meal? Enjoy this delicious pie with my Buttermilk Cornbread or classic Brioche Dinner Rolls!
Why This Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie Will Become Your New Favorite
This isn’t just another shepherd’s pie recipe; it’s a culinary triumph designed for both ease and exceptional flavor. Here’s why this ground turkey shepherd’s pie is bound to become a staple in your home:
- Stunning Presentation: Whether you bake it in a vibrant enameled skillet or a time-honored black cast iron pan, this dish transitions beautifully from oven to table. The golden, bubbly cheese and the rustic charm of the skillet make it a true showstopper, perfect for impressing guests or simply making weeknight dinners feel special.
- Leftovers Are a Dream: Not only is this recipe excellent for utilizing existing leftover vegetables or potatoes, but the dish itself tastes even better the next day! It’s an ideal meal prep option, making future busy weeknights a breeze with a delicious and wholesome meal ready to go. The flavors deepen overnight, transforming into an even more irresistible comfort food.
- Explosively Flavorful: Forget bland fillings! This recipe boasts a deeply savory sauce, crafted right in the skillet with a perfect blend of fresh herbs, tomato paste, and a hint of barbecue sauce. Every bite is packed with umami and rich, hearty goodness that will truly knock your socks off.
- Ideal for Thanksgiving Leftovers: Have some leftover turkey or mashed potatoes from your holiday feast? This recipe provides a brilliant and delicious way to repurpose them into a whole new, incredible comfort meal. It’s an ingenious solution to transform holiday remnants into something truly special.
- Family-Friendly & Wholesome: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, appealing to even the pickiest eaters. By using ground turkey, you get a lighter, healthier take on a classic, without sacrificing any of the comforting essence. It’s packed with vegetables and lean protein, making it a well-rounded and nutritious meal for the whole family.
- Simple & Accessible: Despite its impressive outcome, the recipe is designed with simplicity in mind. With clear, step-by-step instructions, even novice cooks can achieve fantastic results, making gourmet-level comfort food accessible to everyone.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love this Recipe
- What is Shepherd’s Pie?
- Key Ingredients for the Perfect Pie
- Expert Tips for Success
- Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Pie
- Creative Variations to Try
- What to Serve with Your Shepherd’s Pie
- The Case for Cheese on Shepherd’s Pie
- Storing Leftovers Safely
- How to Reheat Shepherd’s Pie
- Recipe FAQs
- More Comfort Food Recipes to Explore
- Cast Iron Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Understanding Shepherd’s Pie: A Culinary Classic
Shepherd’s Pie is a beloved traditional British dish, a true emblem of hearty, comforting cuisine. At its core, it features a savory mince of ground meat and mixed vegetables, all simmered in a rich gravy, then famously crowned with a fluffy layer of mashed potatoes. The dish is then baked until the potato topping turns golden brown and slightly crispy. Historically, true “Shepherd’s Pie” is made with minced lamb, reflecting the shepherd’s role in tending sheep. A similar dish made with ground beef is traditionally known as “Cottage Pie.” While our version uses ground turkey, it embodies the spirit and structure of this classic, offering a modern, lighter twist without sacrificing any of the deep, satisfying flavors that make this dish so enduringly popular. It’s a testament to how adaptable and universally appealing this rustic meal can be.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Every great dish starts with quality ingredients. This shepherd’s pie relies on a thoughtful combination of fresh and pantry staples to create its unforgettable flavor. Here’s a closer look at the stars of our recipe (for precise quantities, please refer to the recipe card below):
- Ground Turkey: We opt for ground turkey to create a lighter, yet equally satisfying, version of this classic comfort food. To ensure maximum flavor and prevent dryness, select a mix of white and dark meat, ideally 85-90% lean. The rich sauce in this recipe perfectly complements the turkey, ensuring a delicious and moist filling. For those who prefer a more traditional touch or a different flavor profile, lean ground lamb or beef can be excellent substitutes, fitting seamlessly into this versatile recipe.
- Fresh Herbs: The magic of fresh herbs cannot be overstated. They infuse the dish with a vibrant, aromatic, and deeply savory flavor that truly elevates the entire pie. Fresh thyme and rosemary, in particular, are exceptional partners to the robust gravy and ground turkey, adding an earthy warmth that defines classic comfort.
- The Dynamic Sauce Duo (Tomato Paste & Barbecue Sauce): This is where much of the incredible depth of flavor comes from! Tomato paste provides a concentrated umami foundation and a subtle sweetness, while a good quality barbecue sauce adds a complex layer of smoky, tangy, and sweet notes. Together, they create a wonderfully rich, thick, and irresistible tomato-based gravy that forms the heart of our filling.
- A Colorful Medley of Vegetables: We incorporate a variety of vegetables, utilizing both fresh and frozen options for convenience and optimal flavor. Carrots, celery, and onions form the classic aromatic base (the “mirepoix”), which are sautéed to release their sweet and savory essences. Frozen peas and corn are added later, contributing pops of color, sweetness, and essential nutrients. This blend ensures a well-rounded filling that’s packed with goodness and vibrant textures.
- Homemade Mashed Potatoes: While shortcuts exist, mashing your own potatoes is truly worth the effort for this dish. Freshly mashed potatoes offer an unparalleled creamy texture and rich flavor that simply can’t be matched by instant varieties. They form the perfect cloud-like topping, absorbing the flavors of the meat mixture below.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes is non-negotiable for us! As it bakes, the cheddar melts into a golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy crust, adding a delightful tang and an extra layer of savory richness that perfectly complements the hearty filling.
- Beef Broth: This liquid gold forms the base of our savory gravy, adding significant depth and richness. While beef broth is highly recommended for its robust flavor, turkey or chicken broth can also be used effectively, ensuring your filling is moist and flavorful.
- Chicken Bouillon Paste/Cube: Our secret weapon for exceptionally flavorful mashed potatoes! Adding a bouillon cube or paste to the water when boiling your potatoes makes a world of difference, infusing them with a savory depth that takes your mash from good to extraordinary. Don’t skip this step for truly creamy and flavorful potatoes.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This fermented condiment is a powerhouse of savory, umami flavor. Just a splash adds incredible complexity and depth to the meat filling, enhancing all the other ingredients. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, an equal amount of soy sauce can be used as a suitable substitute, offering a similar umami kick.
- Olive Oil, Salt & Pepper: Essential for sautéing and seasoning, these fundamental ingredients lay the groundwork for a truly delicious meal.
- Butter & Sour Cream (for Mashed Potatoes): These dairy components are crucial for achieving that lusciously creamy and rich mashed potato topping, contributing to its indulgent texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Crafting the Perfect Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Achieving a truly outstanding shepherd’s pie is all about paying attention to a few key details. These professional tips will help you elevate your dish from good to absolutely unforgettable:
- Achieve Uniformity with Even Dicing: When preparing your carrots, onions, and celery for the filling, strive for consistent, even dicing. This ensures that all vegetables cook at roughly the same rate, preventing some pieces from being crunchy while others are perfectly tender. Evenly cooked vegetables contribute to a harmonious texture throughout the filling.
- Choose Russet Potatoes for Superior Mash: For the ultimate fluffy and smooth mashed potatoes, russet potatoes are your best friend. Their high starch content and low moisture make them ideal for mashing, yielding a light, airy texture that won’t become gummy. Avoid waxy varieties, which tend to result in denser, stickier mash.
- Speed Up Prep with Instant Potatoes (Optional): While homemade mashed potatoes are highly recommended for their superior flavor and texture, we understand that time is often of the essence. If you’re looking for a quick weeknight solution, good quality instant mashed potatoes can be used as a convenient shortcut. The hearty filling and rich sauce will still ensure this cozy comfort food is incredibly delicious, even with a little help from the pantry.
- Season Generously and Throughout: Don’t be shy with seasoning! Season your ground turkey as it browns, and taste the filling before you top it with potatoes. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed. Layers of seasoning build a complex and deeply satisfying flavor profile.
- Don’t Overcrowd Your Skillet: When browning the ground turkey, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook the meat in batches if necessary to ensure it truly browns rather than steams. Proper browning creates delicious caramelized bits (fond) that add incredible flavor to the sauce.
- Let the Flavors Mingle: After adding all the filling ingredients, allow the mixture to simmer gently for at least 10 minutes, or even longer if you have time. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a more cohesive and delicious gravy.
- Rest Before Serving: Once your shepherd’s pie comes out of the oven, resist the urge to dive in immediately. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the filling to set and the mashed potatoes to firm up slightly, ensuring cleaner slices and preventing a soupy mess when serving. It also means less chance of burning your mouth on that deliciously hot interior!
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Perfect Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping and delicious ground turkey shepherd’s pie that your whole family will adore. Remember to consult the full recipe card below for exact measurements and further details.
1. Prepare the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your chicken bouillon paste or cube to the boiling water and stir until it’s fully dissolved, infusing the water with incredible flavor. Roughly chop your russet potatoes into uniform chunks and carefully add them to the seasoned boiling water. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, thoroughly drain the potatoes. For the fluffiest mashed potatoes, consider using a potato ricer rather than a traditional masher. Return the drained, mashed potatoes to the pot and incorporate the sour cream, melted butter, milk, finely diced fresh rosemary, salt, black pepper, and diced fresh garlic. Mix everything together until the potatoes are smooth, creamy, and wonderfully aromatic. Set this delicious mashed potato mixture aside while you prepare the filling.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Turkey:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil into a 12-inch cast iron skillet (or an oven-safe casserole dish) and place it over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to brown slightly, typically around 5-7 minutes. Season lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet with the softened vegetables. Break up the turkey with a spoon and cook, stirring frequently, until it’s no longer pink and is fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Build the Flavorful Filling:
To the browned turkey and vegetables in the skillet, add the minced garlic, flour, tomato paste, and fresh thyme. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the flour to cook out and the tomato paste to deepen in color, creating a rich base. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dijon mustard, and add the bay leaf. Stir everything together until well combined and the sauce begins to thicken slightly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Stir in the frozen corn and peas, and then incorporate the barbecue sauce. Allow the filling to simmer for about 10 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld and deepen beautifully. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning (salt and pepper) as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile. Remove the bay leaf before the next step.
4. Assemble and Bake to Perfection:
Once the filling is perfectly simmered, carefully spread the reserved mashed potatoes over the hot turkey mixture in an even layer, ensuring the entire surface is covered. Using a fork or the back of a spoon, you can create little peaks and swirls in the mashed potatoes; these will crisp up beautifully in the oven. Generously sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the mashed potato topping. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the pie are bubbling, the filling is hot throughout, and the cheese on top is beautifully melted, golden brown, and slightly crispy. Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes for easier, cleaner serving. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Creative Variations to Elevate Your Shepherd’s Pie
While this ground turkey shepherd’s pie is fantastic as is, it’s also incredibly versatile! Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some exciting variations to try:
- Keto/Low Carb Option: Easily transform this into a low-carb delight by substituting the mashed potatoes with a creamy cauliflower mash. Steam or boil cauliflower florets until very tender, then mash with butter, sour cream (or cream cheese), and seasonings. Be sure to cook out any excess liquid from the cauliflower mash on the stovetop before spreading it, to prevent the topping from becoming runny.
- Healthier Shepherd’s Pie Recipe: For an even lighter version, omit the cheese and sour cream in the mashed potatoes. Instead, use a splash of skim milk or unsweetened Greek yogurt (plain) for creaminess. You can also increase the vegetable content in the filling, adding finely diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Opt for extra-lean ground turkey or even ground chicken breast for the meat layer.
- Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie: For a delightful sweet and savory twist, swap the russet potatoes for sweet potatoes. Mash cooked sweet potatoes with a touch of butter, a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg, and a splash of milk or orange juice for a wonderfully unique and vibrant topping.
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add more of your favorite vegetables to the filling. Diced bell peppers, zucchini, green beans, or mushrooms can all be excellent additions. Sauté them with the other aromatics or add them during the simmering phase.
- Herb and Spice Experimentation: While rosemary and thyme are classic, don’t shy away from other herbs like sage, oregano, or a touch of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make the mashed potatoes dairy-free, use a plant-based milk and butter substitute, and omit the sour cream and cheese. You can top it with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or simply enjoy the savory potato crust.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (or omit the flour if you prefer a thinner gravy) and ensure your broths and sauces are gluten-free. The potato topping is already gluten-free.
What to Serve with Your Hearty Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
This ground turkey shepherd’s pie is a remarkably complete meal on its own, offering a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and starch. However, if you’re looking to round out your dinner or add a fresh element, here are some fantastic serving suggestions:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, vibrant side salad with a light vinaigrette, such as a creamy balsamic dressing, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie. The acidity and crunch help cleanse the palate.
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty sourdough or some fluffy garlic butter Parker House rolls are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious gravy.
- Steamed or Roasted Green Vegetables: Simple steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli florets are quick, healthy additions that complement the pie without overpowering it. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper are all they need.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, fresh coleslaw can add a delightful crunch and brightness, especially if your pie features a sweeter BBQ sauce element.
- Cranberry Sauce: If you’ve used leftover Thanksgiving turkey, a side of cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought) can provide a lovely tart counterpoint, tying into the holiday flavors.
The Case for Cheese on Shepherd’s Pie: A Delicious Debate
Ah, the great debate: does true shepherd’s pie include cheese? While some purists might argue that a traditional shepherd’s pie (or cottage pie) simply features a potato topping, we firmly believe that a generous sprinkle of cheese is a welcome addition! Food is about enjoyment, personalization, and creating dishes that bring happiness to those you love. Adding cheese introduces an incredible layer of flavor and, crucially, a delightful textural contrast. As the cheese bakes, it melts, bubbles, and then crisps up into a golden, savory crust that provides a wonderful counterpoint to the creamy potatoes and the rich meat filling. It adds tang, richness, and an irresistible chewiness that simply enhances the overall comfort factor. So, feel free to embrace the cheesy topping – it’s a delicious decision!
Storing Leftovers Safely for Future Enjoyment
One of the many joys of shepherd’s pie is how well it keeps, making it fantastic for meal prep or enjoying delicious leftovers. Proper storage ensures your pie remains fresh and safe to eat:
- Refrigeration: Allow the leftover ground turkey shepherd’s pie to cool completely to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking). Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully! Unlike raw potatoes, mashed potatoes freeze exceptionally well. For best results, allow the pie to cool completely. You can freeze individual portions in small airtight containers or freeze the entire pie (if baked in an oven-safe, freezer-safe dish) tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil. Frozen shepherd’s pie will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop (if in a skillet, add a splash of broth), in the microwave, or in the oven until heated through.
How to Perfectly Reheat Shepherd’s Pie
Enjoying leftover shepherd’s pie can be just as delicious as the first serving, provided you reheat it properly to maintain its texture and flavor. Here are the best methods:
- Oven Method (Recommended for Best Texture):
- Preheat your oven to around 350°F (175°C).
- If the Shepherd’s Pie is already in a heatproof and oven-safe dish (like a cast iron skillet), you can place it directly into the oven. If it’s in a different container, carefully transfer a portion or the whole pie to an appropriate oven-safe dish.
- To prevent the mashed potato topping from drying out or burning, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for approximately 20-30 minutes for individual portions, or 30-45 minutes for a full pie, or until it is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes if you prefer a crisper topping.
- The oven method yields the best results, keeping the filling moist and the mashed potatoes and cheese topping nicely textured.
- Microwave Method (Quick & Convenient):
- If you’re pressed for time, the microwave is a fast option, though it may result in a slightly softer texture compared to the oven.
- Transfer an individual portion of the Shepherd’s Pie to a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to help retain moisture.
- Heat on medium-high power in short intervals (e.g., 1-2 minutes), stirring the filling and checking for doneness between each interval. Continue until the pie is heated through.
- Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the turkey filling.
Common Questions About Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you master this comforting dish:
Can I make shepherd’s pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic meal for making ahead, which can be a huge time-saver. You have a couple of options: you can prepare the filling and the mashed potatoes separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble the dish by spreading the filling in your skillet, topping it with the mashed potatoes and cheese, and then baking. Keep in mind that if you’re baking it from a cold start, it will require an additional 10-15 minutes of cook time compared to baking it immediately after assembly. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the unbaked pie (meat mixture, potatoes, and cheese) in the oven-safe dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add extra baking time as mentioned.
How do I customize my dinner with this recipe?
The beauty of this shepherd’s pie recipe lies in its incredible flexibility! It’s designed to be adaptable to whatever you have on hand or what your family prefers. Don’t have corn? Add more peas, or use a mixed frozen vegetable blend. You can easily swap out the ground turkey for lean ground beef, ground chicken, or even a mix of mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian option. Have leftover shredded chicken or roast beef? Shred it and use it in place of ground meat for an even quicker assembly. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even a touch of smoked paprika in the filling to tailor the flavors to your liking. This recipe is a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.
What is traditional shepherd’s pie?
Traditionally, a true “Shepherd’s Pie” is made with ground lamb, as a shepherd tends sheep. The similar dish made with ground beef is called “Cottage Pie.” Over time, the terms have become somewhat interchangeable, and many variations exist. Our ground turkey version offers a lighter, healthier interpretation while maintaining the core comforting elements. Some traditionalists might also argue against adding cheese to the topping, preferring a simple potato crust. However, we believe that food should be about personal preference and enjoying what you create. So, whether you stick to lamb, opt for beef, or embrace the turkey and cheese, the goal is a delicious, hearty meal on your table!
What if my filling is too runny?
If your filling seems too thin after simmering, you can thicken it by continuing to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, allowing more liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering filling. Cook for another minute or two until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, absolutely! For the mashed potatoes, you can use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free butter substitute. Omit the sour cream and cheese. You can add a tablespoon or two of nutritional yeast to the mashed potatoes for a cheesy flavor, or simply enjoy a lovely, creamy potato topping without the dairy. Ensure your broth and barbecue sauce are also dairy-free.
More Comfort Food Recipes to Warm Your Soul
If you loved this comforting shepherd’s pie, you’ll definitely want to explore these other delicious recipes that are perfect for cozy nights and family meals. These dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings for hearty, flavorful food.
Discover More Hearty Meals
Gourmet Soup Recipes
Hearty Dutch Oven Chili
Main Course
Taco Stuffed Shells with Cream Cheese
Main Course
Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak Recipe
Main Course
Mississippi Pot Roast
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Cast Iron Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 teaspoons Chicken Bouillon Paste
- 2 1/2 lbs russet potatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, diced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove Garlic, diced
Filling
- 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
- 2 Carrots, diced
- 1 Onion, diced
- 2 Celery sticks, diced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon rosemary, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, stems removed
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add chicken bouillon paste. Cut potatoes into chunks and add to the water. Cook until potatoes are fork tender, about 17-20 minutes.
- Drain the water and mash the potatoes. Add sour cream, butter, milk, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and garlic. Continue to mash until everything is mixed together and smooth. Set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200°C).
- Drizzle olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, and onion and cook until browned and slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add ground turkey and continue to cook until browned. Then, add garlic, flour, tomato paste, and thyme. Cook until all ingredients are incorporated and the mixture is slightly thickened. Then add the beef broth, dijon mustard, bay leaf, corn, peas, and BBQ sauce. Taste for salt and pepper and season accordingly. Stir everything together and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and simmer on low for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to develop. Remove the bay leaf.
- Evenly spread the mashed potatoes over the filling, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the potatoes. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and the edges are bubbling. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- It’s always worthwhile to mash your own potatoes for the best flavor and texture! If you are making them for another meal, consider doubling the recipe and saving half for this dish.
- You can easily substitute ground chicken or lean ground beef for the ground turkey if preferred. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed.
- For a richer flavor in the mashed potatoes, you can use heavy cream instead of milk.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 46g,
Protein: 30g,
Fat: 16g,
Saturated Fat: 9g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 4g,
Trans Fat: 0.3g,
Cholesterol: 87mg,
Sodium: 1236mg,
Potassium: 1312mg,
Fiber: 5g,
Sugar: 9g,
Vitamin A: 1016IU,
Vitamin C: 25mg,
Calcium: 167mg,
Iron: 4mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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