1cupbroth(I used beef better than boullion, see notes)
2tablespoonscornstarchmixed with ¼ cup water to make a slurry
12-16oz.mixed frozen veggies
1cupmilk
kosher salt and black pepperto taste
Instructions
Cook the sweet potatoes. Place cubed sweet potatoes in a steamer basket fitted over about 1" of water. Cover and steam for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender (the smaller they are in size, the shorter they will take to cook).
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, melt two tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 3-5 minutes until softened and browned. Add the ground turkey and break apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until turkey is browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes). Add the tomato paste (2 tablespoons) or ketchup, if using, stir to coat and heat for another minute or so.
Pour in the broth (1 cup) and the cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with ¼ cup water). Heat until thickened (1-2 minutes), stirring frequently. Stir in the frozen mixed veggies (straight from the bag, no need to defrost) and continue to cook until heated through. Turn off heat. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
When sweet potatoes are done steaming, remove from steamer and mash in a large bowl with a potato masher with 2 tablespoons more butter, the milk (1 cup), and salt pepper to taste.
Transfer the cooked turkey and veggies mixture to a buttered (or otherwise greased) casserole dish, then top with the mashed sweet potatoes. When spreading out the potatoes, try to create a texture of the surface with a spoon, rather than perfectly smooth it (this will create more crispy parts and rustic texture). Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, melted.
Bake at 375 degrees for 30-40 minutes, or until beginning to brown on top and heated completely through. Allow to cool for at least 5-10 minutes before serving, for best results.
Notes
To peel or not peel the sweet potatoes: The peels are completely edible and have nutrients and fiber - if you like, leave them on! I opted for a smoother texture by peeling the sweet potatoes before cutting into chunks.
To make ahead: assemble the shepherd's pie and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze. When ready to cook, defrost overnight in the fridge if frozen, and cook according to directions. The total time may take longer since it will start from cold.
To make dairy-free: Use a plant-based milk and ghee or vegan butter instead of regular butter.
To make paleo/whole30: Use broth instead of milk in the mashed sweet potatoes, omit the cornstarch or use arrowroot powder instead, and use ghee instead of butter.