Shepherd's Pie with Creamed Corn

Name: Shepherd's Pie with Creamed Corn
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Québécois
Ingredients: 500 g lean ground beef; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 540 ml cream-style corn (1 can); 4 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed); 1/4 cup milk; 2 tbsp butter; 1/2 tsp salt

65 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A classic Québec-style shepherd's pie with seasoned beef, creamed corn, and a fluffy mashed potato topping.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

65 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Shepherd's Pie with Creamed Corn, known in Québec as pâté chinois, is a comforting dish that layers savoury ground beef, sweet creamed corn, and fluffy mashed potatoes. This version brings a delightful twist to the traditional shepherd's pie with the addition of creamed corn, providing a sweet contrast to the savoury beef. Perfect for family dinners, this dish is both hearty and simple to make. The combination of ingredients creates a balanced meal that's sure to please both adults and children alike. Our recipe embraces the classic elements while ensuring ease of preparation.

Instructions

Cook the beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef, salt, and pepper, cooking until browned. Stir in Worcestershire sauce. Ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F / 71°C by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the beef mixture. The meat should be fully browned with no pink remaining.

Pro tip: Break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.

Prepare the potatoes

While the beef is cooking, boil potatoes in a pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

Pro tip: Use a fork to check tenderness; potatoes should break apart easily.

Mash the potatoes

Mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt.

Pro tip: Add more milk if necessary for a creamier texture.

Layer the pie

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Pour creamed corn over the beef layer.

Add the potato topping

Spread mashed potatoes over the corn layer, smoothing with a spatula.

Pro tip: Create peaks with a fork for a textured top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Pro tip: For a crispier top, broil for an additional 5 minutes.

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Tips & Tricks

For a creamy mash, add a touch of cream to the potatoes.
Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
For a crunchy topping, broil the pie for the last 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories in shepherd's pie?

This shepherd's pie with creamed corn contains approximately 450 calories per serving.

How long to cook frozen shepherd's pie?

Bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until heated through.

Reheat shepherd's pie from frozen?

Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes or until hot.

Can I use fresh corn instead of creamed corn?

Yes, you can substitute with cooked fresh corn and a bit of cream for a similar texture.

Can shepherd's pie be made ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble the pie, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for later use.

What is the origin of shepherd's pie?

Shepherd's pie originated in the UK, traditionally using lamb, but variations like this one with beef are popular worldwide.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Shepherd's Pie with Creamed Corn hot out of the oven with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the pie and freeze it before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.