Autumn Butternut Squash Shepherds Pie
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Your New Favorite Fall Meal
Fancy a proper, cozy meal that screams autumn? Honestly, who doesn't? Especially when the evenings get darker earlier and the temperature drops!
We're diving straight into a killer Autumn Butternut Squash Shepherd's Pie . This isn't just any shepherd's pie , mind you.
It's a hug in a dish, and one of the best fall meals you'll have all season.
Quick Hook: Beyond Basic Shepherd's Pie
Ever get bored of the same old dishes? This Shepherd's Pie is the perfect autumn update. It's got a creamy butternut squash recipes topping that'll blow your mind.
Brief Overview: Comfort Food, Elevated
Originating from classic British comfort food , our recipe elevates the Shepherd's Pie. It brings a seasonal twist. It's medium difficulty and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.
One pie yields 6-8 servings. Perfect for a family cozy meals or a potluck.
Main Benefits: Healthy and Hearty
Butternut squash is packed with vitamins. This pie offers warm fall desserts goodness. This recipe is special because it blends tradition with autumn recipes flair.
Also, it's perfect for Sunday dinner. What a way to make it a total winner for those chilly evenings!.
Ready to get started? The full ingredient list is below, so get ready to make a super easy and fun one-pot meals fall !.
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Autumn Shepherd's Pie
Okay, let's talk ingredients! We need the right stuff to make this cozy meal sing. Remember, good ingredients mean good food! This Autumn Butternut Squash Shepherd's Pie is gonna be epic.
Main Ingredients: Fall Flavor, Sorted
Here's what you'll need to whip up this amazing twist on shepherd's pie . I've broken it down so it's super easy. You know, like when you're binge watching your favourite show.
Butternut Squash Mash:
- Butternut squash: 2 lbs (900g) . Go for one that feels heavy for its size!
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) .
- Ground nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon . Freshly grated is best!
- Ground cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon .
- Heavy cream: ¼ cup (60 ml) .
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (30g) .
- Salt and pepper. To taste, obvi.
Lamb Filling:
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) .
- Onion: 1 large (about 1 cup) , chopped.
- Carrots: 2 (about 1 cup) , peeled and diced.
- Celery: 2 stalks (about 1 cup) , diced.
- Ground lamb: 1 pound (450g) . Look for a good color and not too much fat.
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon .
- Dried rosemary: 1 teaspoon .
- Salt: ½ teaspoon , plus more to taste.
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon , plus more to taste.
- Dry red wine: ½ cup (120 ml) . Totally optional but adds depth!
- Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml) .
- Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) .
- Frozen peas: 1 cup .
- Frozen corn: 1 cup .
Honestly, easy fall dinners don't get much tastier than this.
Seasoning Notes: Spicing Up Your Life
Let’s talk about the magic. Thyme and rosemary are the soulmates of this dish, especially together. Don’t skimp! A little cinnamon and nutmeg in the squash? Chef's kiss .
If you're feeling adventurous, try a pinch of red pepper flakes in the lamb! For pumpkin spice recipes , save that for lattes! If you haven’t got thyme or rosemary, then use autumn recipes mixed herbs or Italian herbs.
Worried about flavor? A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can also work wonders.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Alright, here’s what you’ll need to get your bake on:
- Large baking sheet.
- Large skillet or Dutch oven.
- Potato masher or electric mixer.
- 9x13 inch baking dish (23x33cm).
Don’t have a potato masher? A fork works in a pinch! This one-pot meals fall is simple. Trust me, this warm fall desserts will be a winner.
Ready for some serious comfort food ? This butternut squash recipes will do the trick!
Autumn Butternut Squash Shepherd's Pie
Alright, let's get cooking! We're diving headfirst into fall meals with this hearty and comforting dish. This cozy meal feels like a Gilmore Girls marathon with a pumpkin spice latte.
We're making a proper, comforting shepherd's pie , but with a seasonal twist featuring butternut squash. It’s a classic, elevated, and just what you need when the leaves start to turn.
I just love autumn recipes don't you?
Prep Like a Pro
Essential mise en place: Peel, seed, and cube one medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs). Chop one large onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks.
Get your spices ready and measure out the liquids. Honestly, having everything prepped makes a huge difference.
Time saving organization tips: Roast the squash a day ahead! Seriously, it cuts down on prep time the day you're making the pie.
Also, use pre-chopped veggies if you're feeling lazy. No shame in that game!
Shepherd's Pie: step-by-step
- Roast the Squash: Toss the squash with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400° F ( 200° C) for 30- 40 minutes , until tender.
- Mash it Good: Mash the roasted squash with 1/4 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons butter, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside. You know you want to taste it now!
- Sauté those Veggies: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5- 7 minutes.
- Brown the Lamb: Add 1 pound ground lamb and cook until browned. Drain off any excess grease. That's key to avoiding a greasy pie.
- Season Up: Stir in 1 teaspoon thyme, 1 teaspoon rosemary, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. If using, deglaze the pan with 1/2 cup red wine. Add 1 cup beef broth and 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Simmer.
- Simmer Time: Reduce heat and simmer for 15- 20 minutes , until the sauce thickens.
- Add the Goodies: Stir in 1 cup frozen peas and 1 cup frozen corn.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the lamb filling into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the butternut squash mash evenly over the top. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 25- 30 minutes , until golden and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Shepherd's Pie Perfection
- Golden Crust Secret: For an extra golden crust, broil for the last 2- 3 minutes , watching carefully ! Burnt squash is no bueno.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lamb filling. Just a little kick!
- make-ahead Magic: Assemble the pie ahead of time and bake it later. Perfect for easy fall dinners .
Honestly, this shepherd's pie is a game changer. The butternut squash topping is just divine. I'm sure it will become one of your favourite fall recipes !
Looking for more comfort food and warm fall desserts ? Keep an eye on the blog! There’s bound to be a recipe coming soon.
Whether you're looking for one-pot meals fall or something a bit more involved, this recipe is guaranteed to please. I love how the sweetness of the squash complements the savory lamb filling.
Try it out and tell me what you think! I wonder what the most popular pumpkin spice recipes are.
Recipe Notes for Your Autumn Butternut Squash Shepherd's Pie
So, you're ready to whip up this amazing Autumn Butternut Squash Shepherd's Pie? Honestly, you won't regret it. Here are a few extra pointers to ensure your comfort food experience is top-notch! Think of these as my little secrets for making this dish extra special.
Plating and Presentation Perfection
Okay, so this is cozy meals elevated! When plating, think rustic chic. A generous scoop in a cute bowl is always a winner.
A sprig of fresh thyme on top adds a touch of class. Honestly, even just a simple sprinkle of paprika makes it look extra inviting.
For a real showstopper, bake it in individual ramekins. Trust me, it's impressive.
This shepherd's pie goes amazingly well with a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness perfectly.
For a beverage, I reckon a crisp apple cider or a nice Pinot Noir would be spot on.
Storage Sorted
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This pie keeps beautifully. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in cling film and foil. It'll happily sit in the freezer for up to 2 months .
When reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge first. Reheat in the oven at 175 degrees Celsius until heated through.
A microwave works in a pinch, but the topping might not be as crispy.
Variations: Make It Your Own
Want to tweak this autumn recipes wonder? For a veggie version, swap the lamb for lentils. It's just as hearty! And for my dairy-free pals, coconut cream works surprisingly well in the butternut squash mash.
Seriously, give it a go!
For seasonal ingredient swaps , try using sweet potatoes instead of butternut squash. It's another great way to get your butternut squash recipes fix.
In winter, adding some chopped parsnips or even leftover roasted vegetables to the lamb filling is a tasty move.
Nutrition Nitty Gritty
Okay, let's talk numbers. Each serving of this pie clocks in around 450-550 calories. The good news is it's packed with protein (30-35g).
It's also a good source of fibre thanks to all those veggies. Butternut squash is a nutritional rockstar, packed with Vitamin A! So, you're basically eating your way to glowing skin.
Who knew easy fall dinners could be so good for you?
I know what you’re thinking now, you just want to find warm fall desserts .
And there you have it! My extra little tips for making this Autumn Butternut Squash Shepherd's Pie a total knockout.
So, go on, get cooking, and enjoy these delicious fall meals . You've got this! And don't forget to add a sprinkle of love.
It's always the secret ingredient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Autumn Butternut Squash Shepherd's Pie ahead of time? I'm juggling a lot of fall meals planning!
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire pie a day or two in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. This is a great way to get ahead when you're busy like a bee.
My butternut squash mash turned out watery. What did I do wrong?
Watery squash mash is usually due to excess moisture. Make sure to roast the squash until it's nicely caramelized, as this helps to evaporate some of the water. Also, try using a potato ricer or squeezing the cooked squash in cheesecloth to remove excess moisture before mashing, a trick my Aunt Agatha taught me!
I don't have lamb. Can I substitute with something else?
No worries, mate! Ground beef or ground turkey makes a perfectly acceptable substitute for lamb. The flavour profile will change slightly, but it will still be a delicious and comforting Shepherd's Pie. You could even use a vegetarian meat substitute if you're after a meat free option.
How should I store leftover Shepherd's Pie, and how long will it last?
Leftover Shepherd's Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions, or reheat the entire pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This recipe is so good; I doubt you will have any leftovers!
Is there a way to make this Shepherd's Pie healthier?
Definitely! You can use leaner ground lamb or turkey, reduce the amount of butter and heavy cream in the squash mash, and load up on the veggies in the filling. Swapping half of the butternut squash for cauliflower in the mash can also cut down on carbs. Remember to always consider portion sizes as well!
What can I add to the butternut squash topping for extra flavour?
Besides the nutmeg and cinnamon mentioned in the recipe, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking will give it a nice cheesy crust. Consider a little bit of sage if you are after more earthy fall flavours.
Autumn Butternut Squash Shepherds Pie
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 5-7g |