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Thanksgiving Turkey Shepherd's Pie Bake

This Thanksgiving turkey shepherd’s pie bake is pure comfort food in a casserole dish, turning leftover turkey into a warm and filling meal with creamy Yukon Gold potatoes and a savory filling.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 395

Ingredients
  

For the potato topping
  • 2 1/2 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter for mashing
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 3/4 tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
For the filling
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
  • 3 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)

Method
 

Boil the Potatoes
  1. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water by about 1 inch. Add a pinch of salt, then bring the pot to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
Mash the Potato Topping
  1. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Mash them with the warm milk, butter, sour cream, and salt until smooth and creamy. Set aside while you make the filling.
Cook the Vegetables
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Melt the 2 tbsp butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots, and cook for 6 to 7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Make the Savory Filling
  1. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the broth while stirring to combine. Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens. Stir in the cooked turkey, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper, then remove the pan from the heat.
Assemble the Bake
  1. If your skillet is oven-safe, keep the filling in the pan. If not, transfer it to a 9-inch deep baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, then spread to the edges to seal. Use a fork to make decorative ridges, adding cheddar cheese on top if desired.
Bake and Rest
  1. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the filling is bubbling and the potato topping is golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For the best results, use moist, tender cooked turkey. Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking for better serving. This dish is also great for potlucks.