Instant Pot Shepherd's Pie

Recipe View 2 mins Engage the Sauté function on your multi-functional pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot). Add the vegetable oil to the pot and allow it to heat (2 minutes). Introduce the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and crumbly, and the onion is softened and translucent (5-7 minutes).

Recipe View 5 mins Incorporate the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme into the beef mixture, stirring until well combined. Pour in the beef broth and stir in the frozen peas and carrots, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. Discontinue the Sauté function.

Recipe View 10 mins Position a collapsible metal trivet within the pot, ensuring it rests just above the meat-vegetable mixture. Arrange the quartered potatoes on the trivet. Secure the lid, ensuring it is properly locked. Select high pressure according to the manufacturer's directions. Set the timer for 15 minutes if using smaller potatoes, or 20 minutes for medium to large potatoes. Allow 10-15 minutes for the pressure to build.

Recipe View 5 mins After the pressure cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, following the manufacturer's instructions. Carefully release any remaining pressure using the quick-release method, as per the manufacturer's guidelines (approximately 5 minutes). Once the pressure is fully released, carefully open the lid and transfer the cooked potatoes to a separate bowl. Turn off the Instant Pot and cautiously remove the hot trivet.

Recipe View 1 mins Introduce the half-and-half, butter, and garlic salt to the bowl containing the potatoes. Mash the mixture until smooth, creamy, and well combined.

Recipe View 1 mins Position an oven rack approximately 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven's broiler.

Recipe View 2 mins Transfer the meat-vegetable mixture from the Instant Pot into an 8-inch square baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the mixture, spreading to cover completely.

Recipe View Place the baking dish under the preheated broiler and broil until the potato topping is golden brown and slightly crisp (2-3 minutes). Monitor closely to prevent burning.