Description
Shepherd's Pie Loaded Fries combine crispy crinkle cut fries with a savory mixture of ground beef, vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting and fun twist on classic shepherd's pie. This hearty dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Fries
- 32 oz. package frozen crinkle cut French fries
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 garlic clove, crushed or minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz. can tomato paste (3/4 cup)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups frozen mixed vegetables (or about two 10 oz. packages)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 4 oz.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fries: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the 32 oz. frozen crinkle cut French fries on a baking sheet and bake according to package instructions until crisp and golden, approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: While the fries bake, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef, ½ medium chopped onion, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Sauces and Vegetables: Stir in 6 oz. tomato paste, 1 cup beef broth, and ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce. Add 4 cups frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the baked fries into an oven-proof baking dish or a cast iron skillet. Evenly spoon the cooked meat and vegetable mixture over the fries.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for about 5 minutes, or place under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the loaded fries hot as a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and grease.
- Frozen mixed vegetables can be substituted with fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn for a fresher taste.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- If you prefer, swap the cheddar cheese for a milder cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure the Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free.
- This recipe is great for meal prepping and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 362 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 933 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 49 mg
