Now you can use an air fryer for Shepherd’s pie. Shepherd’s pie is a British dish that combines two of the nation’s favorite foods: casserole and mashed potatoes.
If you want to produce one that is an accurate representation of this time-honored standard, you will need to iron out a few wrinkles in the recipe for the dish’s original preparation since it has a few quirks. Just keep reading for our detailed instructions on how to make it step by step.
For instance, there is a wide variety of Shepherd’s pies available, some of which use beef, some of which use lamb, and some of which even use vegetables in place of meat. In some preparations, the casserole is first baked in an oven, and then it is browned in an air fryer; in others, however, the baking step is skipped entirely, and the casserole is taken straight from one technique of cooking to the next. What we do know is that if you work through these challenges, you will be able to construct the ideal Shepherd’s pies for your own household.
Preparation Of Air-Fried Shepherd’s Pie Mashed Potatoes
Preparing the mashed potatoes is the initial step in crafting a shepherd’s pie. Mashed potatoes serve as the dish’s foundation and are an essential component that cannot be skipped. Regardless of whether you opt for a chicken or ground beef mixture, the perfect topping remains the light and airy mashed potato. Packed with carbohydrates and other beneficial nutrients, these potatoes provide the energy boost needed to sustain you throughout the day.
For added convenience, consider preparing the mashed potatoes in an instant pot air fryer while the chicken or ground beef mixture, seasoned with onion powder and thyme leaves, and combined with frozen vegetables, bakes in the oven. If you prefer, you can also cook the potatoes in advance using the instant pot to save time later.
Making the Mashed Potatoes
- Place your potatoes in your instant pot (don’t use an air fryer at this time) and cover your potatoes with water.
- Cook your potatoes under medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until they become tender.
- Use the colander to drain your potatoes. Return the potatoes to your instant pot and let your potatoes rest for an additional 1 minute to allow the remaining liquid to evaporate.
- Add pepper, salt, butter, and garlic powder before mashing the potatoes.
- Add the cheese and mix the ingredients well.
Preparing The Casserole Foundation
For the casserole foundation, mix the prepared mashed potatoes with additional ingredients like flour and milk in a medium bowl. While flour thickens and adds flavor to the potatoes, milk contributes creaminess, carbohydrates, and protein. You can make the mashed potatoes healthier by omitting butter and cream, reducing calories and fat while retaining the potatoes’ nutritional benefits.
Other Ingredients
- Once the mashed potatoes and beef mixture are ready, enhance your Shepherd’s pie casserole by adding sausages, carrots, and peas, along with cheddar cheese for flavor and nutrients.
- Boil the carrots and peas beforehand for tenderness.
- Layer the beef mixture in a dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake until golden brown for delicious air fryer Shepherd’s pies.
Make The Air Fryer Shepherd’s Pie Crispy And Crunchy!
Start by mashing the potatoes and cooking them in a skillet over high heat for about 15 minutes, seasoning with salt for crunchiness. Then, add the casserole base and heat for another 5-10 minutes. For best results, refrigerate the pie overnight for a creamy texture. Alternatively, you can serve it immediately, adding extra mashed potatoes on top for added creaminess.
How To Prepare The Meat Filling Of The Shepherd’s Pie
- On your large skillet, add oil and place under medium heat for 2 minutes before adding the onion.
- Cook the onions for 5 minutes and add the meat (ground beef or lamb). This recipe will use beef. Break the beef apart. Cook under medium-high heat until no pink remains in the meat.
- When it is observed that no pink remains in your meat, add salt and pepper. You can also add rosemary, parsley, and thyme. Mix to ensure that the mixture is evenly heated. You can also add garlic and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add the flour and tomato paste.
- Set the meat mixture of the air fryer Shepherd’s pie aside.
Why Use An Air Fryer?
- Try our comforting Shepherd’s Pie recipe, perfect for any time of the day. The air fryer enhances its nutritional value and taste. You can easily make it with just oil and a few ingredients.
- You can also modify the air fryer to mimic a deep fryer by adding oil and cooking the air fryer Shepher’s pie before topping it with mashed potatoes.
- Air fryers give a crisp and even Shepherd’s pie output.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can You Heat Shepherd’s Pies In An Air Fryer?
- Reheating shepherd’s pies is possible via an air fryer. To do this, first, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F.
- Place parchment paper on your cooking basket.
- Place your shepherd’s pies into the cooking basket. Reheat your shepherd’s pie for 3 to 5 minutes.
How Long Do Pies Take To Cook In An Air Fryer?
The cooking time for pies varies based on the recipe and pie type. For simple recipes, it typically takes 10-15 minutes in this kitchen appliance at 200 degrees F, while Shepherd’s Pies stuffed potatoes require about 45 minutes at 350 degrees F. It’s important to follow specific recipe instructions for optimal results.
Can You Use This Kitchen Appliance To Cook Pies?
Absolutely. It is a versatile appliance that can cook almost anything. You can cook your favorite apple pie, cottage pie, buko pie, and many other types of pies in this kitchen appliance. If you want to explore more cooking recipes, go ahead and try to air-fry your favorite pies.
Can You Cook Pies In Foil In An Air Fryer?
Cooking pies in foil in an air fryer depends on the model and manufacturer guidelines. While some basket-style models allow foil use for filled foods like pies to prevent dripping, oven-style models often do not recommend it. It’s essential to consult your kitchen appliance’s manual, as foil can interfere with airflow, react with acidic foods, or potentially cause overheating and fire risks.
Can Frozen Pies Go In This Kitchen Appliance?
Yes, you can put them directly into the air fryer. There’s no need to defrost them beforehand, making it a convenient and quick option for enjoying delicious pies.
Can You Bake In This Kitchen Appliance?
If you’re wondering if you can cook baked goods in this kitchen appliance, the definite answer is yes. You can save time too since there is no need to preheat, unlike the oven requires. So, go get your baking ingredients like butter, gravy mix, salt, cheese, meat (beef or lamb), milk, potato, pepper, and others; prepare them, put them in the pan, and bake your favorite Shepherd’s pies. If you prefer a simpler recipe, then you might want to try this air fryer baked potatoes.
Can You Cook Pizza In An Air Fryer?
Pizza is very easy to cook in an air fryer. If you want to cook a frozen pizza, preheat your kitchen appliance to 370 degrees F. Cook your pizza for 6-8 minutes or until you can observe that the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Can You Use Foil Or Parchment Paper In An Air Fryer?
As guidelines vary, consult the manufacturer’s manual before using foil or parchment paper. If allowed, ensure proper placement to avoid issues. Following your recipe’s instructions, you can use parchment paper in this kitchen appliance for cooking dishes.
Is Cooking In This Kitchen Appliance Healthier Than Cooking In An Oven?
Oven baking is healthier than using the air fryer. This is because nutrients are preserved in the oven-baking process while eliminating the bad ones. If you want to achieve faster baking, put your pan of batter in the air fryer. But, if you want the healthier option, place your pan of batter in the oven.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Pies In This Kitchen Appliance?
Cooking them in this appliance typically takes about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, cooking times can vary depending on the size and type of the pastry, so it’s best to check for doneness.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Meat Pies In The Oven?
Last Updated on May 10, 2023 by Cath Aguinaldo
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