Chili Shepherd's Pie Recipe

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Cook Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe serves 8. Ingredient quantities adjust automatically, but cooking times and preparation steps remain the same. Note that some recipes may not scale perfectly.

• 6 medium russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and quartered
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
• 3 tablespoons chopped green onion, plus extra for garnish
• 1 pound ground beef
• 3 (15-ounce) cans chili
• 1 (11-ounce) can whole kernel corn with sweet peppers (Mexican-style), drained

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Place the potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and return to the saucepan.
3. Add the butter to the hot potatoes and let it melt for 2 minutes. Mash the potatoes until smooth.
4. Stir in the sour cream, milk, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
5. Fold in 3/4 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese and the chopped green onions. Set aside.
6. In a large saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
7. Add the chili and drained corn to the beef. Heat until it reaches a simmer, about 5 minutes.
8. Pour the chili mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. Top the chili with the mashed potatoes, smoothing them into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese on top.
10. Bake in the preheated oven until the dish is hot and bubbly, about 15 minutes. Garnish with additional chopped green onions before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 636
• Total Fat: 34g (44% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 14g (72% DV)
• Cholesterol: 119mg (40% DV)
• Sodium: 993mg (43% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 48g (17% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (17% DV)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 36g (72% DV)
• Vitamin C: 16mg (18% DV)
• Calcium: 218mg (17% DV)
• Iron: 6mg (36% DV)
• Potassium: 1360mg (29% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your values may differ depending on your calorie needs. Consult a doctor or dietitian if you have dietary restrictions.

The Story Behind Chili Shepherd's Pie

Chili Shepherd's Pie is a modern twist on the classic shepherd's pie, which has roots in the United Kingdom, particularly in Scotland and Northern England. Traditionally, shepherd's pie was a simple, hearty dish made to use leftover roasted meat, often lamb, topped with mashed potatoes. The addition of chili in this variation reflects the influence of global flavors and the popularity of Tex-Mex cuisine, merging the comforting nature of a traditional British dish with the bold, spicy flavors of chili. This fusion likely emerged in North America, where home cooks sought innovative ways to reinvent familiar comfort foods.

Regional Variations

While the original shepherd's pie remains a staple in the UK, the chili-infused version has gained popularity in the United States and Canada. In the American Midwest, cooks often add beans or sweet corn to the chili layer, creating a slightly sweeter and heartier pie. Meanwhile, southwestern variations may include jalapeos, black beans, or smoky spices, emphasizing the Tex-Mex influence. These regional adaptations show how a traditional dish can evolve based on local ingredients and culinary tastes.

What Sets It Apart from Similar Dishes

Chili Shepherd's Pie distinguishes itself from both traditional shepherd's pie and chili con carne. Unlike the classic shepherd's pie, which uses a savory meat gravy, this version incorporates pre-cooked chili, giving it a spicier, more robust flavor. Compared to chili con carne, which is usually served on its own or with bread, the mashed potato topping adds creaminess and balance, creating a layered casserole that is both filling and flavorful. This combination of texturescreamy potatoes over spicy chilimakes it uniquely comforting and satisfying.

Typical Serving Occasions

This dish is commonly served as a family dinner or during casual gatherings, especially in colder months when hearty, warming meals are appreciated. It is also popular at potlucks and community events because it can be prepared in advance and easily reheated. Many restaurants with a focus on comfort food or British-inspired cuisine feature chili shepherd's pie as a main entre, often accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Interesting Facts

• Although named after shepherds, the original dish rarely used lamb in everyday households; beef was often substituted due to cost and availability.
• The chili version demonstrates culinary globalization, combining traditional Scottish cooking with North American Tex-Mex flavors.
• Some variations include cheese not only in the mashed potato topping but also within the chili layer, adding extra richness and gooey texture.
• Shepherd's pie is often confused with cottage pie; the main difference being that cottage pie typically uses beef while shepherd's pie uses lamb. Chili shepherds pie, however, is most commonly made with ground beef.
• Leftovers of this dish tend to taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together overnight.

FAQ about Chili Shepherd's Pie Recipe

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