ground turkey shepherd’s pie recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
ground turkey shepherd's pie recipe
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The Best ground turkey shepherd’s pie recipe

I’ve always been a fan of traditional shepherd’s pie, but I wanted to create a healthier version using ground turkey. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to reduce their meat intake while still satisfying their cravings. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. I love serving this dish at family gatherings or on busy weeknights when I need something quick and comforting. My kids adore it, and my husband can’t get enough of the savory flavors.

As for me, I appreciate the fact that this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Ground turkey is an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables add fiber and vitamins. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies you might have on hand.

This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will be the same for you once you try it out. So go ahead, give it a shot, and experience the magic of ground turkey shepherd’s pie for yourself! One thing I’ve noticed is that my family always looks forward to this dish after a long day.

It’s become a symbol of comfort and love in our home. And let me tell you, the aroma alone is worth making this recipe time and time again. When I’m cooking, I like to think about where this dish comes from – the UK, where it originated as a hearty meal for working-class families.

It’s amazing how something so simple can bring people together across cultures and generations.

Ground Turkey Shepherd's Pie

Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

4.9 from 800 votes

A lighter twist on the classic comfort food, this shepherd’s pie uses lean ground turkey in a savory vegetable filling, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It bakes into a golden, bubbly casserole that is both satisfying and wholesome.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Filling

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground turkey
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen corn kernels
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and white pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2Place the cubed potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
3Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
4While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes.
6Season with salt and pepper.
7Add the diced onion and carrots to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
8Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
9Sprinkle the flour over the turkey mixture and stir to coat evenly.
10Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
11Pour in the chicken broth and add the tomato paste, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.
12Fold in the frozen peas and corn, then remove from heat.
13Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the saucepan.
14Add the butter, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and white pepper.
15Mash until smooth and creamy.
16Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
17Transfer the turkey filling to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
18Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top and spread gently to cover the filling completely.
19Use a fork to create ridges on the surface for browning.
20Place the baking dish on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the filling is bubbling around the edges and the potato topping is lightly golden.
21Let the shepherd’s pie rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Medium saucepan
Potato masher or ricer
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 24g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese to the mashed potatoes before spreading. To save time, use leftover mashed potatoes or refrigerated pre-made mashed potatoes. This dish can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated; bake directly from the fridge, adding 10 minutes to the cooking time.

Watch Video Of How Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie Works

This ground turkey shepherd’s pie recipe is perfect for any occasion or daily eating – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave for up to three days after cooking.

Store any remaining pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze individual portions for future meals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Q: What’s the difference between ground turkey and ground beef?

Ground turkey has a leaner meat profile compared to ground beef, making it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their fat intake.

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Sure thing! Frozen veggies are just as nutritious as fresh ones and will save you time during prep.

Q: How do I ensure my ground turkey stays moist?

Avoid overcooking your meat by not breaking it up too much as it cooks – this will help retain moisture.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prep the filling and assemble the pie up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q: What if I don’t have any Worcestershire sauce?

No problem! You can omit it or substitute with soy sauce or tamari for added depth of flavor.

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