French Onion Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

In this healthier version of a traditional recipe, I punch up the flavor of turkey with caramelized onions and brandy, cut saturated fat with heart-healthy canola oil, and save a few calories for a sprinkling of gooey cheese. Serve with a side of lemony green beans and everyone’s happy!

French Onion Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Average Rating: 4.333333

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 40 min. Bake: 30 min.
YIELD: 4 servings.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 large onions, peeled, halved and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 2-1/4 cups reduced-sodium beef broth, divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 pound extra-lean ground turkey
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons brandy or additional reduced-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon stone-ground mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/3 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese

Instructions

  • 1. Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook for 10-15 minutes or until tender.
  • 2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute onions and 1/4 teaspoon salt in oil until softened. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes or until deep golden brown.
  • 3. Drain potatoes. Mash with 1/4 cup broth and pepper; set aside and keep warm.
  • 4. In a nonstick skillet, cook turkey over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Add the flour, brandy, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and remaining broth and salt. Cook and stir for 5-7 minutes or until thickened. Stir in peas and onion mixture.
  • 5. Transfer to a 1-1/2-qt. baking dish coated with cooking spray; spread with potato mixture. Bake, covered, at 375° for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake, uncovered, 10-15 minutes longer or until golden brown.

Nutrition Facts

1-1/4 cups: 360 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 803mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 4g fiber), 37g protein.
Diabetic Exchanges:
4 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.