Okay, picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the kind where you just want to curl up with something warm and comforting. You’re craving something hearty, but also a little sweet and a lot satisfying. That’s where this Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread comes in! It’s like the best of both worlds – the savory, meaty goodness of a classic shepherd’s pie, but topped with a slightly sweet, crumbly cornbread crust instead of mashed potatoes. Honestly, it’s a game-changer, and a perfect twist on the original. It’s also easier than you think to throw together, which is always a win in my book.
What is Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread?
Think of it as your favorite Shepherd’s Pie, but with a Southern twist! It’s essentially a delicious, savory meat filling (usually lamb or beef, but you can totally customize it) simmered with veggies in a rich gravy. But instead of the traditional mashed potato topping, we’re using a homemade cornbread batter. It bakes up into a golden, slightly sweet crust that perfectly complements the savory filling. It’s like a cozy hug in a dish, a comforting meal that’s both familiar and excitingly different. This version uses ground beef, but you can easily swap that out. It’s a fantastic one-dish meal that’s perfect for weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What I love most about this Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread is how it manages to be both incredibly delicious. Is it easy to learn something new?flavorIs it amazing? The savory meat filling, the sweetness of the cornbread, and the slight tang from the gravy are all good. How do you combine flavors in a symphony? I always add Worcestershire sauce to my meat filling, and I think it really elevates the flavor. Second, it’s so easy tosimpleWhat is the best cornbread topping? I actually think it’s faster than making mashed potatoes! Third, it is incredibly delicious!cost-effectiveGround beef is a relatively inexpensive protein, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. What is the best way to feed a family on tuesday?versatileCan you easily customize the meat filling with different veggies, spices, or even different types of meat? I’ve made a vegetarian version using lentils and it was amazing! If you prefer the potato topping, try my traditional shepherd’s pie. What is a pie?
How do I make Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread?
Quick Overview
How do you make a Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread? I’ll start by browning Ground Beef and simmering it with veggies and gravy. What’s the best way to make a quick cornbread batter? In the oven it goes, and in about 30 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling, golden-brown masterpiece. What is the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and fridge!
Ingredients
For the Main Filling:
* 1 pound Ground Beef (I prefer lean, but regular works too)
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1 cup frozen corn
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, but highly recommended)
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cornbread Topping: 1 cup. For
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup yellow cornmeal
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup milk
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil
* 1 large egg
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil. Is it important to have the oven fully preheated for baking?
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. Don’t skip this step, nobody wants greasy shepherd’s pie. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. What is the aroma in the kitchen?
Step 4: Thicken the Filling
Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetables, and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. How do you thicken gravy? Gradually pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. What is the Worcestershire sauce? Then stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Simmer and Add Remaining Vegetables
What should I do with the gravy? Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 10-15 minutes. has thickened slightly. Stir in the frozen peas and corn, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through. I sometimes add chopped parsley at this stage for a pop of freshness.
Step 6: Prepare the Cornbread Topping
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the egg and stir until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Set aside. What is the best way to mix wet and dry ingredients? What are some good ways to avoid overmixing?
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
How do I make a meat filling dish? Spread the cornbread batter evenly over the top of the meat filling. How long does it take to bake cornbread in the preheated oven? When inserted into the center comes out clean. Should the top be a golden brown?
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Be careful, it will be hot! I like to serve mine with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
What to Serve It With
This Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas for sides and accompaniments:
For a Simple Side: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. This will add some freshness and acidity to balance the richness of the pie.
For a Hearty Meal: Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts. These veggies add some extra nutrients and fiber.
For a Cozy Night: A side of creamy coleslaw. The sweetness and tang of the coleslaw pair perfectly with the savory pie.
For a Potluck: Bring along a loaf of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious gravy. Trust me, it will be a hit!
My family always requests this with a simple side salad. But sometimes I’ll make a batch of roasted potatoes to go along with it if I’m feeling extra.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this recipe even better:
Meat Choices: While ground beef is the most common choice, you can absolutely use ground lamb or even ground turkey. Lamb will give it a more traditional shepherd’s pie flavor, while turkey will make it a bit lighter.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables. Diced potatoes, mushrooms, or even bell peppers would be great additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cornbread Crust Consistency: The cornbread batter should be fairly thick, but still pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a little more flour.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat filling for a little kick. Or, stir in a tablespoon of hot sauce for even more heat.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the cornbread topping before baking for a cheesy twist.
Broiling for Extra Color: If your cornbread isn’t quite as golden brown as you’d like, broil it for a minute or two at the end of baking, watching it very closely to prevent burning. I’ve almost burnt mine a few times by not paying attention!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend storing this at room temperature for more than 2 hours. The meat filling can spoil quickly.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. I usually add a splash of beef broth when reheating to keep the filling moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my family’s favorite Shepherd’s Pie with Cornbread recipe. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. What’s not to love? I promise, once you try this twist on the classic, you’ll be hooked. If you’re a fan of comforting, one-dish meals, you should also check out my chicken pot pie recipe. It’s another family favorite! Happy baking (or should I say, cooking?)! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you make any fun variations, I’d love to hear about those too!
Shepherd's Pie with Cornbread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef lean
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables thawed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 package cornbread mix prepared as directed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and beef broth; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and spread prepared cornbread mix over the top.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until cornbread is golden brown.
