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Shepherd's pie is a classic dish that has warmed the hearts and stomachs of families for generations. Traditionally made with tender meat and a hearty mashed potato topping, this comfort food is synonymous with home-cooked meals and cozy evenings. In this article, we will explore a delightful twist on the traditional recipe: Comforting Turkey & Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie. By using ground turkey and sweet potatoes, this version not only retains the essence of the original but also introduces a nutritious approach to this beloved dish.

Homestyle Turkey and Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie

Discover the heartwarming delight of Comforting Turkey & Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie! This nutritious twist on the classic dish features lean ground turkey and creamy sweet potatoes, bringing a lighter, healthier option to family dinners. Packed with essential vitamins and flavor, this recipe maintains the cozy essence of traditional shepherd's pie while offering a deliciously unique experience. Perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknights, it’s sure to become a household favorite!
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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 your choice of dairy-free alternative)

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

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for an extra flavor kick)

Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Sweet Potato Topping:

    - Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the sweet potato chunks. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.

      - Using a potato masher, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy. Mix in the milk, butter, ground cinnamon (if desired), and salt to taste. Set the sweet potato mixture aside.

        Cook the Turkey Filling:

          - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

            - Stir in the diced carrot and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

              - Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.

                - Add the fresh thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, frozen peas, and the chicken broth. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper. Let it 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).

                      - Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the turkey filling in an even layer across the bottom of the dish.

                        - Spoon the mashed sweet potatoes over the turkey filling, smoothing with a spatula. For added texture, use a fork to create peaks and ridges in the sweet potato topping.

                          Bake:

                            - Place the assembled shepherd's pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potato topping is slightly golden and the edges are bubbling.

                              Serve:

                                - Once baked, allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting shepherd's pie warm, ideally with a fresh side salad for a complete meal experience.

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