Name: Twice-Baked Shepherd’s Pie Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Irish-Inspired
Ingredients: 4-6 large russet potatoes; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp butter; ¼ cup milk; ½ cup cheddar cheese (optional); 1 lb ground beef or ground lamb; 1 onion, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup peas; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; ½ cup beef broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A fun twist on Shepherd’s Pie – Individual portions baked inside potato shells for easy serving.
Comforting and hearty – A delicious combination of meat, vegetables, and potatoes.
Great for meal prep – Make them ahead of time and bake when ready.
Customizable – Use beef, lamb, or even a vegetarian filling to suit your preference.
Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day – A festive way to enjoy classic Irish flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Potatoes:

Large russet potatoes
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Butter
Milk
Cheddar cheese (optional)

Filling:

Ground beef or lamb
Onion, diced
Carrots, diced
Garlic, minced
Peas
Tomato paste
Worcestershire sauce
Beef broth
Salt and pepper
Dried thyme or rosemary (optional)

Directions

Bake the potatoes – Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rub potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake for about 45-50 minutes until tender. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the filling – In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or lamb until browned. Add onions, carrots, and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Simmer until slightly thickened. Add peas and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Make the mashed potatoes – Cut the top off each baked potato and scoop out the insides, leaving a thin shell. Mash the potato with butter, milk, and cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble – Fill each potato shell with the meat mixture, then top with mashed potatoes. Use a fork to create texture on the surface.
Bake again – Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 potatoes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Version – Add shredded cheese on top before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Vegetarian Option – Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Spicy Kick – Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the filling for extra heat.
Loaded Style – Mix crispy bacon bits into the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Herb Infused – Add fresh parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked stuffed potatoes for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave for a quick meal.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Yes! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet contrast to the savory filling.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the potatoes and refrigerate them before the second bake.

What’s the best type of potato for this recipe?

Russet potatoes work best because they have a sturdy skin and fluffy interior.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, if you have pre-made mashed potatoes, you can use them instead of scooping out the baked potato insides.

How do I make them crispier on top?

Brush the mashed potato topping with melted butter before baking.

Can I add gravy on top?

Definitely! A drizzle of gravy makes them even more indulgent.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No, leave the skin on so they hold their shape when stuffed.

What can I serve with these potatoes?

They pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or Irish soda bread.

Can I use a different meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well.

How do I prevent the potatoes from falling apart?

Leave enough potato flesh attached to the skin so they stay sturdy.

Conclusion

Twice-baked Shepherd’s Pie potatoes are a fun, delicious twist on the classic dish, perfect for cozy dinners or festive occasions like St. Patrick’s Day. With a rich, savory filling and fluffy mashed potato topping, they’re sure to be a hit at your table. Try them out and enjoy a taste of comfort food with an Irish-inspired twist!