Savory Paleo Shepherd's Pie
The bold flavor from the bacon and fish sauce are balanced by the mashed cauliflower. It is an ideal make-ahead freezer meal or potluck dish.
The bold flavor from the bacon and fish sauce are balanced by the mashed cauliflower. It is an ideal make-ahead freezer meal or potluck dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large sweet onion diced
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1.5 pounds uncured pork bacon ends and pieces
- 1.5 cups diced carrots
- 1.5 cups diced celery
- 1.5 cups diced zucchini
- 1.5 pounds organic grass fed ground beef or bison
- 1 cup free range chicken broth
- 2-3 tablespoons coconut flour
- i cup homemade tomato sauce
- himalayan pink salt to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons gluten free fish sauce (check your label)
- 2 medium heads cauliflower
- Carbohydrate 5.119445 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 2.7409835 g
- Fiber 1.23700498964787 g
- Protein 0.616889 g
- Saturated Fat 0.3822084 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (209g)
- Sodium 30.4883 mg
- Sugar 3.88244001035213 g
- Trans Fat 0.1224809 g
- Calories 45 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat in a large frying pan.
- Sauté diced onion and garlic for about 5 minutes, or until soft (but not caramelized) and then set aside in a bowl.
- Rough chop raw bacon ends and pieces, lengthwise and across (you can do this in one big lump of bacon-y goodness).
- Add bacon pieces to pan and sauté until cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Drain (and keep for future meals!) bacon fat and return bacon pieces, onions, and garlic to the pan.
- Add carrots, celery, and zucchini to the mixture and sauté the entire thing for about 10 minutes (until the added veggies become soft).
- Add ground beef or bison to the pan and sauté until brown, just a few minutes (you can also opt to brown the ground beef/bison separately before draining and adding).
- Season with salt, pepper, cayenne, and fish sauce.
- Add chicken broth, simmer until mostly evaporated.
- Sprinkle coconut flour over mixture and stir.
- Add tomato sauce, reduce heat, simmer and stir for 2-3 more minutes.
- Pour ground beef mixture into a lightly oiled 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
- Place cauliflower in food processor and puree with remaining olive oil and salt (to taste) until smooth.
- Spread mashed cauliflower over beef and veggie base.
- Bake at 350° for 30-40 minutes.
Savory Paleo Shepherd's Pie: A Weeknight Winner
Life as a busy working mom is a whirlwind of early mornings, school drop-offs, demanding meetings, and the never-ending cycle of laundry and dishes. Finding time for anything beyond the bare minimum often feels impossible. That's why I cherish recipes that are not only delicious but also efficient and adaptable. This Savory Paleo Shepherd's Pie fits the bill perfectly. It's a hearty, satisfying meal that's surprisingly quick to assemble, making it a lifesaver on those chaotic weeknights.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. I often double the recipe, enjoying one pan immediately and freezing the other for a future meal. It's a great freezer-friendly dish, perfect for those times when even the thought of cooking feels overwhelming. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so there's no compromise on taste or texture. It's also a crowd-pleaser. I’ve taken this to potlucks countless times, and it always disappears quickly. The rich, savory flavors of the bacon, ground beef, and vegetables, combined with the creamy, comforting mashed cauliflower topping, satisfy everyone's cravings. The subtle kick of cayenne adds just the right amount of spice, without being overpowering.
I love using organic, grass-fed ground beef for the best flavor and nutritional value. The bacon adds a salty depth that complements the sweetness of the carrots and celery. And don't be afraid of the fish sauce; a little goes a long way, adding a unique umami flavor that elevates the entire dish. Trust me, even your pickiest eaters will be surprised by how delicious this is. This recipe is not only efficient and delicious but also provides a sense of accomplishment after a long day. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos, there's still time for wholesome, homemade goodness. The joy of sharing a flavorful, nourishing meal with my family makes all the effort worthwhile. And knowing that I have a freezer stash of ready-to-eat meals provides a much-needed sense of calm and preparedness. Try it yourself and experience the magic of a simple yet deeply satisfying recipe that makes a busy life a little bit easier.
Beyond the Weeknight: This Shepherd's Pie also transitions effortlessly to weekend meals. Imagine a cozy Sunday dinner, the aroma of this hearty dish filling your home. It's the perfect companion to a quiet evening with family or a relaxed brunch with friends. The make-ahead aspect means you can focus on enjoying the company rather than stressing about meal preparation. Whether it's a quick weeknight fix or a delightful weekend treat, this Savory Paleo Shepherd's Pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's as versatile as it is delicious.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Add some greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as peas, green beans, or butternut squash.
- Make it a casserole: If you prefer, you can bake this in a larger, shallower dish.
This Savory Paleo Shepherd's Pie is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients combined with a little creativity. It's a reminder that even in the midst of a busy schedule, nourishing yourself and your family doesn't have to be complicated.
