Mini Shepherds Pot Pies
There’s something heartwarming about a dish that feels like a hug from the inside out, and that’s exactly what Mini Shepherds Pot Pies offer. I can still remember the first time I made these little delights; they brought back memories of cozy family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The moment I pulled these golden-brown pies from the oven, the aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew I had created something special.
Each bite of these Mini Shepherds Pot Pies is a delightful combination of tender meat, savory vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all encased in a flaky pie crust. They’re perfect for a chilly winter evening or any gathering where you want to impress your friends and family. I love that they’re not just tasty, but also fun to make; cutting out the dough circles and filling them brings out the kid in all of us! These pies are a wonderful twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, and they offer a portable way to enjoy all the wonderful flavors we love.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this recipe is straightforward and full of opportunities to add your personal touch. So grab your favorite ingredients and let’s get started on making these Mini Shepherds Pot Pies that are sure to become a family favorite!
Recipe Snapshot
55 mins
15 mins
40 mins
Medium
310 kcal
14 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
16 g
Blender, Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
What Sets This Mini Shepherds Pot Pies Apart
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Mini Shepherds Pot Pies. Let me share a few that make this dish truly special.
Comfort Food Redefined
There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of comfort food, and Mini Shepherds Pot Pies take that comfort up a notch. The combination of flaky crust, hearty filling, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a satisfying dish that feels like home. It’s the perfect remedy for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty but also fun!
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about these mini pies is their versatility. They’re fantastic as a cozy dinner option, but they also shine at gatherings and parties. Just imagine serving them at your next get-together, where guests can grab a pie, enjoy the flavors, and mingle all at once. They’re ideal for everything from casual family meals to festive celebrations.
Fun to Make
Cooking should be enjoyable, and making Mini Shepherds Pot Pies is just that! From rolling out the pie crusts to cutting out circles and filling them, it’s a hands-on experience that you can share with friends or family. Kids love joining in on the fun too, making this a perfect recipe for family bonding time.
Customizable to Your Tastes
While the traditional filling is absolutely delicious, one of the greatest features of Mini Shepherds Pot Pies is their adaptability. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Swap in your favorite vegetables, use different types of meat, or even make a vegetarian version with lentils. The possibilities are endless!
Easy to Prepare Ahead of Time
If you’re looking for a dish that can fit into a busy schedule, look no further. You can prepare the filling and assemble the pies a day in advance. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you without the last-minute rush.
Great for Leftovers
Leftovers can often be a challenge, but not with Mini Shepherds Pot Pies. They reheat wonderfully, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. Just store them in the fridge, and enjoy them for lunch or dinner throughout the week!
Mini Shepherds Pot Pies Ingredients
When it comes to the ingredients for Mini Shepherds Pot Pies, each component plays a crucial role in creating the deliciousness we crave. The combination of rich flavors from the meat, paired with the heartiness of the vegetables, and the creamy mashed potatoes, all enveloped in a flaky crust, is what makes this dish so irresistible. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!
- 1 package refrigerated pie crust – This convenient crust makes it easy to whip up these pies without the hassle of making dough from scratch.
- ½ lb lean ground beef – The star protein of the dish, providing richness and flavor.
- 1 oz onion soup mix – Adds depth and an incredible savory flavor to the meat mixture.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps to thicken the filling, ensuring it’s not too runny.
- ¾ cup beef broth – Infuses moisture and flavor into the filling.
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (corn, peas, and carrot blend) – A colorful and nutritious addition that brings the filling to life.
- 1 package Bob Evans Classic Mashed Potatoes – This creamy topping adds a delightful twist and a comforting finish to the pies.
The Method for Mini Shepherds Pot Pies
Now it’s time to put everything together! The method for making Mini Shepherds Pot Pies is straightforward and fun. You’ll love how quickly these come together, and the result is sure to impress everyone at your table!
- Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This will ensure the pies bake evenly and get that golden crust we all love.
- Unroll both pie crusts on a clean surface. Using a 3-inch circle cookie cutter or a small round bowl, cut out twelve circles from the crust. Don’t throw away the scraps! You can re-roll them to cut out additional circles.
- Now, take a 12-cavity muffin tin and line each cup with a pie dough circle, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. This forms the base for our mini pies.
- Place the lined muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 9 minutes, or until the crusts are lightly browned. Keep an eye on them, as you want them golden without being overdone.
- While the crusts are baking, let’s prepare the filling. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef. Cook it until it’s crumbled and no longer pink, stirring occasionally. This step adds wonderful flavor to your filling.
- Once the beef is ready, stir in the onion soup mix and the all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Next, pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate any tasty browned bits. Then, add in the frozen vegetable mix. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. You want the mixture to thicken and the veggies to be heated through.
- Once the filling is ready, take the muffin tin out of the oven. Scoop about ¼ cup of the meat mixture into each piecrust, filling them generously.
- Top each mini pie with a dollop of Bob Evans Classic Mashed Potatoes, about 2 tablespoons each. This will create a creamy, satisfying layer.
- Return the muffin tin to the oven and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. Watch as the piecrusts turn golden brown and the mashed potatoes get slightly crispy on top.
- If you desire perfection, turn on the top broiler for the last 2 minutes to lightly brown the mashed potatoes. It makes for an enticing presentation!
- Once they’re done, use a butter knife to gently run around the edges of the mini pies to release them from the tin. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of your delicious Mini Shepherds Pot Pies!
Things Worth Knowing
- Crust Care: Always let your pie crust sit at room temperature for a few minutes before working with it. This makes it easier to roll out and handle.
- Beef Browning: Make sure your skillet is hot enough to get a good sear on the beef; this adds flavor and texture.
- Thickness Test: When adding the flour, ensure you mix it well with the beef to avoid clumps. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape.
- Broiler Caution: If using the broiler, keep a close watch. It can go from perfectly browned to burnt very quickly.
Recipe Variations about Mini Shepherds Pot Pies
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up, there are plenty of fun variations for Mini Shepherds Pot Pies. Here are some delicious ideas!
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option. Each choice offers a unique flavor profile.
- Vegetable Mix: Instead of the frozen vegetable blend, use fresh vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or even mushrooms. They will add a freshness to your dish.
- Cheesy Topping: Add shredded cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy twist.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor by adding some of your favorite herbs or spices to the meat mixture, like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- Alternative Crust: Try using puff pastry instead of pie crust for a flakier texture and a different taste experience.
- Make It Mini: Instead of using a muffin tin, you can also make mini versions using a mini pie pan for individual servings.
- Serving Options: Serve these pies with a side of salad or steamed vegetables to balance the hearty filling.
Great Combinations for Mini Shepherds Pot Pies
When it comes to serving Mini Shepherds Pot Pies, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic combinations and ideas that will elevate your meal.
- Salad Pairing: A crisp garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the pies beautifully.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or green beans, add a nutritious touch.
- Comforting Drinks: Pair these pies with hot apple cider or a warm herbal tea for a cozy feel, especially in winter.
- Ideal for Lunch: These mini pies are perfect for a hearty lunch. Just reheat and enjoy with some fresh fruit on the side.
- Freezing for Later: Make a double batch and freeze the extras for a quick meal later. They’re easy to reheat and still taste delicious!
- Picnic Ready: Take them on a picnic! They’re portable and make for a delightful outdoor meal.
- Family Game Night: Serve these pies during a family game night—a fun finger food that everyone will love!
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mini Shepherds Pot Pies capture the essence of comfort food in a fun and delicious way. With each bite, you’ll enjoy a blend of flavors that remind you of home. I encourage you to try making these little pies yourself; they’re not just easy to prepare, but they’ll also warm your heart and bring joy to your table. So gather your loved ones and make some memories with this delightful dish tonight!
Mini Shepherds Pot Pies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
- Step 2: Unroll both pie crusts and use a 3” circle cookie cutter or small round bowl to cut out 12 circles.
- Step 3: Line each cup of a 12-cavity muffin tin with the pie dough and bake for 8 to 9 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- Step 4: Meanwhile, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until cooked and crumbled.
- Step 5: Stir in the onion soup mix and 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 6: Pour in the beef broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, then add in the frozen vegetable mix.
- Step 7: Continue cooking and stirring for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the liquid has thickened and the veggies are mostly heated through.
- Step 8: Scoop ¼ cup of the meat mixture into the pie crusts, then top each mini pie with 2 tablespoons of Bob Evans Classic Mashed Potatoes.
- Step 9: Continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, till the pie crusts are golden brown.
- Step 10: Turn on the top broiler for the last 2 minutes to lightly brown the mashed potatoes if desired.
- Step 11: Run a butter knife around the edge of the mini pies to gently remove and serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These mini pies freeze beautifully. Just cool them completely before wrapping in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag.
- Variations: Feel free to mix up the fillings with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through.
- Serving: These pies are great for lunchboxes or as a quick dinner option during busy evenings.
