Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato (Air Fryer Recipe)
Intro:
This Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potato brings together the best of two comfort foods — crispy-skinned baked potatoes and the rich, savory goodness of shepherd’s pie filling. Perfectly air-fried potatoes are loaded with seasoned ground beef (or lamb), mixed vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s ideal for a cozy dinner or as a meal-prep favorite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Ingredients:
For the Baked Potatoes:
2 large russet potatoes
1 tsp olive oil
Salt, to taste
For the Meat Filling:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
250g (½ lb) ground beef or lamb
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
½ cup frozen peas and carrots
2 tbsp tomato paste
¼ cup beef broth (or water)
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
1½ cups mashed potatoes (use leftovers or freshly made)
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp milk or cream
Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
Shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped parsley
Sour cream
Instructions:
Air Fry the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Pat dry.
Rub each potato with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through, until fork-tender and crispy on the outside.
Prepare the Meat Filling (while potatoes cook)
In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat.
Sauté onions for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef or lamb and brown the meat, breaking it apart.
Stir in thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, tomato paste, and broth.
Add frozen peas and carrots. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Combine mashed potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
Mix until smooth and creamy (warm slightly if needed for easier piping/spreading).
Assemble the Baked Potatoes
Once baked, cut a slit down the center of each potato and fluff the inside with a fork.
Spoon in the meat mixture generously into each potato.
Top with mashed potatoes — you can pipe them on using a zip-top bag or spoon and spread neatly.
Final Air Fry (Optional Cheese Topping)
Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top if using.
Return to the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes, or until the top is golden and warmed through.
Tips & Tricks:
Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time.
Swap beef for lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Add Worcestershire sauce to the meat filling for extra umami.
Piping mashed potatoes makes a more appealing presentation.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a simple green salad or steamed green beans.
Drizzle with brown gravy or a dollop of sour cream.
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 Stuffed Potato):
Calories: 450–520 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 500mg