how long to bake shepherdʼs pie
The baking time for shepherd’s pie can vary depending on the size of the dish, the temperature of the oven, and the thickness of the mashed potato topping. Here are some general guidelines:
Small dish (6-8 servings):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Medium dish (8-10 servings):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Large dish (10-12 servings):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Tips:
- Make sure the mashed potato topping is evenly spread and not too thick, as this can affect the baking time.
- If you’re using a convection oven, reduce the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
- Check the shepherd’s pie after 20-25 minutes of baking and cover the top with foil if the potatoes are browning too quickly.
- Let the shepherd’s pie rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set and the potatoes to cool slightly.
Remember, the key is to ensure the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. If you’re unsure, you can always check the internal temperature of the filling, which should be at least 165°F (74°C).
