How To: Make a shepherd's pie

Some don't like shepherd's pie, but if you love it, try making it at home. This shepherd's pie recipe is sure to be a family favorite. It's not actually a "pie", as in dessert, but a full-blown, hearty meal.

This traditional Shepherd's Pie from how2heroes is meant to feed a hungry crowd. Kevin Carey of Verrill Farm, youngest of 13 children, knows exactly how to prepare it. Layers of creamy potatoes and lean ground beef with a hearty helping of whole kernels of corn, tomatoes and cheddar cheese complete a family-style meal that's pure comfort on a plate.

Ingredients:

Makes about 9 servings

Beef, Corn & Tomato Layer

* 2 tbsp corn oil
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1½ cups onions, small dice (white Spanish onion recommended)
* 2 cloves garlic, chopped
* ½ tsp oregano
* ¼ tsp black pepper
* 1 tsp kosher salt
* ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
* 1½ cups corn kernels
* 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
* 2 cups fresh plum tomatoes, seeds removed, medium dice

Mashed Potatoes Layer

* 1½ lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled & quartered
* 2 tbsp butter
* ¼ - ½ tsp white pepper
* ½ tsp kosher salt
* ½ cup milk

Topping

* 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded

Special Equipment

* 1-2 gallon pot
* 9" x 11" baking pan
* large spatula for serving