Keto Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash

Keto Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash

A comforting, low-carb version of the classic British dish.

Key Info

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Diet: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or cast iron pan
• Food processor or blender
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Cutting board and chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Alternative: Slow cooker can be used for the filling

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Topping:

• 2 pounds (900g) cauliflower florets
• 4 tablespoons (60g) butter
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Meat Filling:

• 2 pounds (900g) ground lamb or beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup (240ml) beef stock
• 1 tablespoon tamari sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon each: salt, pepper, smoked paprika
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. Prepare Cauliflower Mash:
   • Boil cauliflower in salted water until tender (7-8 minutes).
   • Drain thoroughly.
   • Blend with butter, cream, and half the cheese until smooth.
   • Season with salt and pepper.

   

3. Make the Filling:
   • Brown meat in large skillet (8-10 minutes).
   • Remove meat, drain excess fat.
   • Sauté vegetables until soft (5 minutes).
   • Return meat to pan.
   • Add seasonings, stock, and tomato paste.
   • Simmer until liquid reduces (10 minutes).

   

4. Assemble:
   • Transfer meat mixture to baking dish.
   • Top with cauliflower mash.
   • Sprinkle remaining cheese.

   

5. Bake:
   • 10 minutes at 450°F (232°C).
   • Broil 3-5 minutes until golden.

   

Crucial Tips

• Drain cauliflower extremely well to avoid watery mash.
• Let sit 10 minutes before serving.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning meat.

Storage & Variations

Storage:

• Refrigerate up to 5 days.
• Freeze up to 2 months.
• Reheat at 350°F (177°C).

Variations:

• Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Add mushrooms or zucchini to filling.
• Mix in cream cheese for a richer mash.

Common Mistakes:

• Watery cauliflower mash.
• Under-seasoned filling.
• Not letting it rest before serving.

This keto-friendly version gives you all the comfort of traditional shepherd’s pie without the carbs. Perfect for meal prep and family dinners!