Introducing Pulled Pork Shepherd’s Pie, a delightful twist on a classic recipe! This unique dish combines the goodness of pulled pork with the comforting flavors of Shepherd’s Pie. It’s the perfect way to utilize any leftover pulled pork you have on hand.
We approached this recipe with a hint of skepticism, unsure of how it would taste. Would it be a successful fusion of flavors or an unfortunate culinary mishap? To our pleasant surprise, it turned out to be absolutely delicious!
During a recent party, my husband smoked an impressive 80 pounds of pork (check out our amazing Pulled Pork Recipe). While it was a hit at the gathering, we found ourselves with some leftovers. Determined to make the most of them, I embarked on a culinary adventure, discovering mouth-watering ways to incorporate the pulled pork. We’ve already enjoyed Pulled Pork Hash and Pulled Pork Nachos, both of which were fantastic!
What Exactly is Shepherd’s Pie?
In simple terms, Shepherd’s Pie (or Cottage Pie) is a meat pie with a mashed potato topping. Traditionally, lamb is used for Shepherd’s Pie, while beef is the star of Cottage Pie. The meat is typically combined with a savory gravy sauce, onions, and vegetables. The dish is then topped with mashed potatoes and often finished with a layer of melted cheese.
Technically, this recipe should be called Pulled Pork Cottage Pie, but I opted for a different name to ensure its recognition. My concern was that people might not immediately connect the dots, so Shepherd’s Pie it is!
The Magic of Skins-On Mashed Potatoes
Skins-on Mashed Potatoes! Skins-on Mashed Potatoes! Skins-on Mashed Potatoes! I can’t stress it enough. It may take some getting used to, but once you try them, you’ll never go back. It’s the only way our family makes mashed potatoes now, and they are truly the best. You can find the recipe here, and I highly recommend considering it for your next Shepherd’s Pie!
Fresh or Canned Vegetables?
While canned vegetables are used in this recipe, you can certainly opt for fresh ones. However, if using fresh vegetables, be sure to cook them first, typically for 8-10 minutes in a skillet over medium heat. Frozen vegetables are another option, but they should be thawed and cooked before adding them to the dish. Looking for another fun variation? Try using Beef Stew as the base! Simply pour it into your pan and spread the mashed potatoes on top. It’s simply dreamy!
BBQ Sauce vs. Tomato Sauce
In our recipe, we use BBQ sauce, but you can easily substitute it with tomato sauce or ketchup. The key is to choose your favorite BBQ sauce. I opted for a slightly sweet one, while my husband prefers a spicy BBQ sauce. We’ve experimented with different variations, and they all turn out delicious!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups pulled pork
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 can (15.25 ounces) mixed veggies
- 1 can (15.25 ounces) corn, drained
- 4-5 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the pulled pork, BBQ sauce, mixed veggies, and corn.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the mixture, smoothing it out as needed.
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Once done, remove the Pulled Pork Shepherd’s Pie from the oven and serve it immediately.
Garnish with parsley for an added touch of freshness and color.
Now, sit back and savor the deliciousness of this unique Pulled Pork Shepherd’s Pie. The tender pulled pork, combined with the rich BBQ sauce and flavorful vegetables, creates a mouthwatering filling. And the creamy mashed potatoes, with their delightful skins-on texture, provide the perfect comforting topping. Each bite is a delightful blend of savory flavors and comforting goodness.
Whether you’re looking to use up leftover pulled pork or simply want to try a new twist on a classic dish, this Pulled Pork Shepherd’s Pie is sure to impress. Enjoy it as a hearty family dinner or serve it to guests for a memorable and satisfying meal. It’s a fusion of flavors that will leave everyone craving more. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in this delectable creation. Bon appétit!
