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Keto Shepherd’s Pie with a creamy cauliflower mash topping is a delicious and comforting low-carb dinner option.

Perfect Keto Shepherd's Pie

Enjoy a comforting and classic Shepherd's Pie without the carbs. This keto-friendly version features a savory meat filling topped with creamy cauliflower mash, offering all the flavor and satisfaction of the traditional dish while staying within your dietary guidelines. It's surprisingly easy to make and will become a family favorite.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground lamb
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce keto-friendly
  • 1/2 cup frozen green beans, thawed and chopped
  • 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower rice, thawed and drained
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets about 4 cups
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Food processor or immersion blender
  • Steamer or pot
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare all your ingredients by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and thawing the frozen vegetables.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the ground beef (or lamb) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  6. Stir in the thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
  7. Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
  8. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  9. Stir in the green beans and cauliflower rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.
  10. While the meat filling is simmering, steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  11. Drain the cauliflower well and transfer it to a food processor or use an immersion blender.
  12. Add the softened butter, softened cream cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
  13. Process until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  14. Pour the meat filling into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  15. Spread the cauliflower mash evenly over the meat filling.
  16. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly bubbly.
  17. Let the shepherd's pie cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For an even creamier cauliflower mash, add sour cream or Greek yogurt. Feel free to add other keto-friendly vegetables to the meat filling, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can prepare the meat filling and cauliflower mash ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keto Shepherd's Pie can also be frozen for longer storage, up to 2-3 months. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the cauliflower mash before baking for a cheesy twist. Use ground lamb and add Mediterranean flavors such as oregano, mint, and lemon zest to the meat filling. Top with a cauliflower mash mixed with feta cheese and Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean version.