This Shepherd’s Pie with Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs is an inventive comfort food mashup that brings extra indulgence to the traditional dish. Instead of the usual ground meat layer, this version features juicy beef meatballs with gooey cheese cores nestled under a blanket of buttery mashed potatoes and rich homemade gravy. It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor—and best of all, every bite holds a delightful surprise of melted cheese.
The dish begins with meatballs seasoned with warm spices and herbs, each stuffed with a cube of cheddar or mozzarella. A quick pan sear gives them a flavorful crust while locking in moisture. They’re then layered in a casserole dish and smothered in a beefy gravy enriched with Worcestershire sauce, adding savory depth to the dish.
Creamy mashed potatoes form both the base and the topping—fluffy, buttery, and lightly seasoned, they help balance the richness of the meat and cheese. The final bake melds all the layers together, while broiling at the end can give the potatoes a beautifully golden, crisp top for added texture.
This version of shepherd’s pie is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want a warm, all-in-one meal that brings comfort and creativity to the table. It can even be made in advance and reheated, making it practical as well as indulgent.
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Servings: 6
Total Time: 55 minutes (30 min prep, 25 min bake)
Ingredients :
For the meatballs:
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 ounces mozzarella or cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes (for stuffing)
For the mashed potatoes:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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