Classic Beef Shepherd's Pie

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Ground Beef (93% lean or leaner)
• 1-1/2 cups Classic Beef Gravy
• 1-1/2 cups chopped onions
• 1-1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots blend
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2-1/2 to 3 cups mashed potatoes

• 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese or cheddar cheese (optional)

Cooking:

1. Prepare Classic Beef Gravy.
   
   Classic Beef Gravy:
   Melt 1/4 cup butter in large nonstick skillet over medium heat until melted. Stir in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; cook 5 to 7 minutes until mixture is deep brown, stirring often. Whisk in 2 cups reduced-sodium beef broth until smooth; simmer 3 minutes, stirring often. Reduce heat to medium-low heat; cook 2 to 3 minutes until thickened. Stir in 1 teaspoon beef bouillon granules and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Season with salt, as desired.
2. Preheat oven to 450°F. Heat 10 to 12 inch cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add Ground Beef and onions; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into 3/4-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Stir in gravy, frozen vegetables and pepper.
Cook's Tip: Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed Ground Beef. Ground Beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. Color is not a reliable indicator of Ground Beef doneness.
3. Top beef mixture with potatoes, spreading evenly; sprinkle with cheese, if desired. Bake in 450°F oven 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly and cheese begins to brown. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Cook's Tip: Shepherd's Pie can also be baked in a 2-quart baking dish. Following step 1, transfer meat mixture to baking dish and top with potatoes and cheese. Baking times are the same.