Rustic Potato and Ground Chuck Shepherd’s Pie

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Fresh Store Ground Chuck 80/20

  • 2 lbs Russet Baking Potatoes, peeled and quartered

  • 1 large Jumbo Yellow Onion, chopped

  • 1 stalk Celery, chopped

  • 2 Large Artichokes, hearts chopped (optional)

  • 1 can Delallo Crushed Tomatoes (24 oz)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 8 oz Kerry Gold Butter

  • 8 oz Dairy Fresh Cheese Shreds

  • 1 cup milk

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Olive oil

Directions:

  1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Potatoes:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Boil the russet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

  2. Cook Ground Chuck:

    • In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the ground chuck, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

  3. Sauté Vegetables:

    • In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onions, celery, and artichoke hearts (if using) until they are soft and the onions are translucent.

  4. Combine Meat & Vegetables:

    • Return the cooked ground chuck to the skillet with the vegetables.
    • Add the crushed tomatoes and minced garlic. Simmer for about 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

  5. Mash Potatoes:

    • Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
    • Add half of the Kerry Gold Butter and mash until smooth.
    • Gradually add milk until you achieve a creamy consistency.
    • Stir in half of the cheese shreds, and season with salt and pepper.

  6. Assemble the Pie:

    • In a baking dish, spread the ground chuck and vegetable mixture.
    • Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

  7. Bake:

    • Dot the top of the mashed potatoes with the remaining butter and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

  8. Serve:

    • Let the shepherd’s pie cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your Rustic Potato and Ground Chuck Shepherd’s Pie with a glass of your preferred wine from the list, like Santiago Chardonnay or Coppola Pinot Grigio. This dish is sure to be a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion!