Shepherd's Pie Recipe for Dogs
Shepherd's Pie is a popular dish in America, made from ground beef and other tasty ingredients. Although typically for humans, with a few tweaks this dish makes a great meal for dogs as well! Check out this Shepherd's Pie recipe, originally featured in the Canine Chef's Cookbook.
Shepherd's pie is a savory pie traditionally made from leftovers. The meat and veggies are moistened with gravy, transferred to a pie plate, then topped with mashed potatoes. This is a super quick and easy dish to make, and since it's made from leftovers you can use any dog-safe ingredients that you want! Here are our recommendations:
Shepherd's Pie for Dogs (makes 12 mini pies)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 cup carrots, chopped or pureed
- 1/2 cup sweet peas, chopped or pureed
- 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
- 1 garlic clove, minced or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon parsley >
- 1 egg
- 1 - 1/3 cups cooked mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup cheese, shredded or crumbled
Preparation Instructions:
- In large bowl, combine the ground beef, carrots, sweet peas, bread crumbs, parsley, and egg until thoroughly mixed. I like to puree Kirby's veggies because even though they are chock full of vitamins and minerals they are harder for a dog to digest.
- Divide mixture evenly into 12 ungreased muffin cups. I like using the parchment paper muffin cups in case anything does stick and cleanup is a breeze. Use your fingers to pat down the bottom and sides of each cup to form a bowl.
- Prepare the mashed potatoes. It's ok to use instant potatoes as long as they are 100% potato. The small amount of milk and butter won't hurt either unless your dog is lactose intolerant. In that case just omit them. Next add in your choice of cheese. I've used sharp cheddar cheese and feta cheese with good results. Pipe or spoon the potato mixture into the meat bowls.
- Bake at 375 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes or until meat is thoroughly cooked.
- Remove cups from pan and let cool.
Once they have completely cooled they can be stored in airtight ziplock bags for several months. To serve, let thaw and warm in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds.
Just follow those simple steps, and in less than an hour you'll have a tasty treat that your pooch is sure to enhoy!
This recipe has been carefully researched and tested by Kirby the Dorkie and his furiends. It is essential to seek the advice of your Veterinarian before changing your dog's diet or adding any ingredients to your dog's food especially if your dog has any underlying health issues.
Debby, pawrent to Kirby the Dorkie, creates and develops recipes for dog treats and dog meals.
What do you think of this recipe? Do you have your own special recipe for Shepherd's Pie? Let us know in the comments!