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In the realm of comforting home-cooked meals, few dishes resonate as deeply as a Shepherd's Pie. This beloved classic has been a staple in many households for generations, providing a sense of warmth and satisfaction with every bite. The traditional version typically features a hearty filling of ground beef or lamb topped with creamy mashed potatoes. However, this recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional concept, substituting ground beef with lean turkey and using mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. This Turkey & Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie is not only a delicious alternative but also a health-conscious choice that caters to modern dietary preferences.

Homestyle Turkey and Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie

Discover the heartwarming delight of Turkey & Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie, a nutritious twist on a classic dish. This recipe replaces traditional ground beef with lean turkey and creamy sweet potatoes, creating a healthier yet equally comforting meal. Packed with colorful veggies and bursting with flavor, it's perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Learn how to make this wholesome dish that offers a satisfying blend of taste and nutrition, ideal for any occasion.
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Ingredients
  

For the filling:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 carrot, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

1 pound ground turkey

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 cup frozen peas

1 cup chicken broth

Salt and pepper to taste

For the sweet potato topping:

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

1/4 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Sweet Potato Topping:

    - In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the sweet potato chunks. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.

      - Mash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher. Stir in the milk, butter, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Set aside.

        Cook the Turkey Filling:

          - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

            - Add the diced carrot and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

              - Increase the heat and add the ground turkey, cooking until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).

                - Stir in the thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, frozen peas, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to reduce slightly.

                  Assemble the Pie:

                    - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

                      - In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread the turkey filling evenly on the bottom.

                        - Top with the mashed sweet potatoes, spreading evenly with a spatula. You can create peaks with a fork for a crispy texture.

                          Bake:

                            - Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is slightly golden and the edges are bubbling.

                              Serve:

                                - Allow to cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your homestyle shepherd's pie with a side salad for a complete meal!

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 25 mins | 1 hour | 6 servings