How to Make Paleo-Friendly Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash

How to Make Paleo-Friendly Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash

Embarking on a Paleo diet journey doesn’t mean you have to give up on your comfort food favorites. Imagine diving into a hearty, savory shepherd’s pie that aligns perfectly with your health and dietary goals. Today, let’s transform this classic dish into a Paleo-friendly delight that features a mouth-watering cauliflower mash instead of the traditional potato topping.

Why Choose Cauliflower?

Cauliflower is a versatile, low-carb alternative to potatoes, making it perfect for the Paleo diet. It’s packed with nutrients, including vitamins C, K, and B6, along with fiber, which supports digestion. By substituting potatoes with cauliflower, we not only lighten the dish but also boost its nutritional profile.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for your Paleo-friendly shepherd’s pie:

• For the Filling:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (or lamb for a more traditional take)
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: ½ cup frozen peas (if you include them in your Paleo diet)

• For the Cauliflower Mash:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or ghee
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional for added flavor)

Preparation

Let’s break down the process into simple, easy-to-follow steps:

1. Cook the Veggies and Meat:
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots, sautéing them until softened, about 5 – 7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground meat to the pan. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.

5. Stir in the tomato paste, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook gently, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes until the mixture thickens. If you’re using peas, stir them in at the last 5 minutes.

6. Prepare the Cauliflower Mash:

7. While the meat is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until very tender, about 10 minutes.

8. Drain the cauliflower well and transfer to a food processor. Add the olive oil or ghee, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

9. Assemble and Bake:

10. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
11. Spread the meat mixture into an even layer in a baking dish. Spoon the cauliflower mash over the meat, spreading it out in an even layer. You can use a fork to create peaks on the mash, which will brown nicely.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top begins to brown and the edges are bubbly.
13. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Paleo-friendly shepherd’s pie hot out of the oven. It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of steamed green vegetables or a fresh salad for added freshness and crunch.

Conclusion

Who says you have to sacrifice flavor and comfort when following a Paleo diet? This shepherd’s pie with cauliflower mash proves that with a few smart swaps, you can enjoy all the richness and heartiness of your favorite dishes. Not only is this version lighter and lower in carbs, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients that’ll make you feel good about indulging. So, go ahead and savor every bite of this cozy, comforting, and totally Paleo-approved meal!