Make Ahead Southwest Cattle Rancher's Pie Recipe

A hearty and flavorful Southwest twist on classic shepherd's pie! This make-ahead casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. Tender ground sirloin simmered in a rich Southwestern sauce is topped with creamy, spicy mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection. Moo-vingly delicious!

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 80 mins
Calories 266.3 kcal
Protein 39g
Rating 4.9 (7 Reviews)
Make Ahead Southwest Cattle Rancher's Pie 15

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Make Ahead Southwest Cattle Rancher's Pie

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How to Make Make Ahead Southwest Cattle Rancher's Pie

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large nonstick skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and mushrooms over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 6 minutes).
  3. Add the ground sirloin and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 5 minutes).
  4. Drain off any excess fat.
  5. Stir in the oregano, thyme, cumin, and pepper.
  6. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
  7. Add the beef broth, wine, and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
  8. Line a 2-quart casserole dish with a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil, leaving enough overhang to seal the casserole later.
  9. Lightly grease the foil inside the casserole dish with cooking spray.
  10. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared casserole.
  11. While the meat simmers, place the potatoes in a pot of boiling water. Reduce heat and simmer until tender (15-20 minutes).
  12. Drain the potatoes and mash them, adding skim milk until fluffy and creamy. Stir in the salt, minced jalapeño, cilantro, and scallions.
  13. Spoon the potato mixture over the meat mixture, swirling with the back of a spoon for a decorative effect.
  14. Sprinkle with paprika and cheese.
  15. Cover the casserole tightly with foil and freeze until solid.
  16. Once frozen, lift the casserole out of the dish, wrap securely in the foil, and place in a freezer bag. Label with the name and date. Use within 3 months.
  17. To bake: Thaw the casserole completely in the refrigerator overnight. Remove from freezer bag and foil, place back in the casserole dish.
  18. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  19. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving hot.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

5 g

Sugar

19g

Fat

19g

Carbs

8g