Cheese Scalloped Shepherd’s Pie

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Meat Filling:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
   • Stir in the tomato paste, mixed vegetables, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine. Let it cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
   • Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Pie:
   • In a large baking dish, spread the meat filling evenly on the bottom.
   • Pour the cheese sauce over the meat filling, spreading it evenly.
   • Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in an overlapping pattern on top of the cheese sauce.
5. Top with Cheese and Seasoning:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes.
   • Drizzle the melted butter over the top and sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake the Shepherd’s Pie:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve:
   • Let the Cheese Scalloped Shepherd’s Pie rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to slice.

Tips

• Potato Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for even and thin potato slices.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meat filling and cheese sauce a day ahead and refrigerate. Assemble and bake the pie when ready to serve.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with lentils or a meatless ground substitute.

Enjoy this hearty and delicious Cheese Scalloped Shepherd’s Pie, a perfect blend of comforting flavors and creamy textures!