Easy Shepherd's Pie

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 dash worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped (or 3 sweet potatoes)
• 1/3 cup milk, heated
• 1/2 cup shredded monterey jack cheese (optional)
• 1 (12 ounce) bag frozen carrots, thawed
• 1 (12 ounce) bag frozen peas, thawed
• salt, to taste

Directions

1. 1

   Preheat oven 350 degrees.

2. 2

   First, make mashed potatoes: Place potatoes in medium saucepan and add enough water to cover. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to med-low; cover loosely and boil gently for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes break apart easily. Drain well. Mash potatoes until no lumps remain. Add salt, pepper and milk; continue mashing until potatoes are smooth.

3. 3

   While potatoes are boiling, brown ground beef over medium heat with onion, chili powder and Worcestershire sauce. Drain grease from meat and spread into a large baking dish. (I usually use two 2-quart dishes).

4. 4

   Add a layer of carrots on top of beef, then add a layer of peas.

5. 5

   Top with mashed potatoes, and sprinkle with cheese.

6. 6

   Bake 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated and cheese is melted.