What type of oven and temperature should be used to properly cook a frozen shepherd’s pie?
How Long to Cook Frozen Shepherd’s Pie?
Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd on a cold winter’s night. But what about when you have leftovers or want to make a big batch? Freezing shepherd’s pie can be a great way to have a quick and easy meal on hand, but it’s important to know how long to cook it for.
What is Shepherd’s Pie?
Shepherd’s pie is a savory dish made with ground meat, usually lamb or beef, that is cooked with vegetables and topped with mashed potatoes. The dish originated in the United Kingdom and is now a popular comfort food around the world.
Freezing Shepherd’s Pie
Freezing shepherd’s pie is a great way to have a quick and easy meal on hand. It’s important to freeze the pie in a container that is safe for the freezer, and to label it with the date it was frozen.
How Long to Cook Frozen Shepherd’s Pie
When it comes to cooking a frozen shepherd’s pie, there are a few things to consider:
- The type of oven you have
- The size of your pie
- The temperature of your oven
As a general rule, a frozen shepherd’s pie will take about 90 minutes to cook in a conventional oven. If you have a convection oven, you can reduce the cooking time by about 25% and the pie should be ready in about 70 minutes.
It’s important to check on your pie during cooking to make sure it’s heating through evenly. You can do this by inserting a fork or knife into the center of the pie – it should come out hot to the touch. If the pie is browning too quickly on the top, you can cover it with foil to prevent burning.
Tips for Cooking Frozen Shepherd’s Pie
To ensure your shepherd’s pie is cooked to perfection, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Thaw the pie in the fridge for a few hours before cooking – this will help it cook more evenly
- Preheat your oven to the correct temperature before putting the pie in
- Place the frozen pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips or spills
- Check on the pie every 30 minutes to make sure it’s cooking evenly
Conclusion
Cooking frozen shepherd’s pie is a great way to enjoy this classic comfort food on a busy night. The cooking time will depend on a few factors, but as a general rule, a frozen shepherd’s pie will take about 90 minutes to cook in a conventional oven. With a little bit of planning and patience, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.