Chef John's Shepherd's Pie

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1Place cubed potatoes and garlic in a large pot with enough water to cover; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until tender, about 20 minutes.
2. 2Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
3. 3Meanwhile, cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Stir flour into beef and drippings; stir in vegetables, beef broth, ketchup, salt, and black pepper until combined. Cook until thick, about 5 minutes, then transfer to an oven-proof casserole dish.
4. 4Drain potatoes; return them to the pot. Slightly smash potatoes with a potato masher; add sour cream and 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese. Mash until smooth.
5. 5Top beef mixture with potatoes, spreading from center of casserole to edges to form top layer. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese.
6. 6Bake in the preheated oven until cheese melts and turns golden, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool before serving, 15 minutes.