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Beef Picadillo Shepherd's Pie

A low-carb twist on classic Shepherd's Pie, this Beef Picadillo version is packed with warm spices and a tangy olive kick. Perfect for a flavorful family meal!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Cauliflower Topping
  • 1 head cauliflower cut into small florets
  • 2 cups chicken broth divided
For the Beef Picadillo Filling
  • 1 lb extra lean ground beef
  • 1 red onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 green pepper diced
  • 1 red pepper diced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes from a can
  • 0.25 cup olives with pimento, coarsely chopped
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread cauliflower florets in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray. Roast for 30 minutes. Cool slightly, then transfer to a food processor (or blender). Add 1 cup of chicken broth and process until smooth. Transfer to a bowl, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
  2. Heat the ground beef in a large skillet on medium-high heat until browned. Transfer beef to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess fat.
  3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced peppers to the same skillet (still on medium-high heat). Cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes. Stir in cumin and paprika and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly. Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth, diced tomatoes, chopped olives, and balsamic vinegar. Cook for 6 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly and reduced by half. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the beef mixture to an 8 or 9-inch square baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  4. Spoon the prepared cauliflower puree over the beef mixture as evenly as possible.
  5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes at 400°F. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden and heated through. Serve hot.

Notes

This recipe is a delightful low-carb alternative to traditional Shepherd's Pie, offering a hearty and flavorful experience without the potatoes.