Microwaving frozen meals has become a popular way to save time and effort in the kitchen. But what about microwaving frozen shepherd’s pie?.
In particular, can you microwave Great Value Beef Shepherd’s Pie? This is a question that a lot of busy people have been asking, and we’re here to answer it.
We’ll talk about how to microwave this popular frozen meal, including how long to do it, how to get the best results, and more.
Check out this recipe if you like shepherd’s pie and want a quick and easy way to make it!
Shepherd’s pie is the ultimate comfort food With its scrumptious filling of ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for chilly nights But when time is short and you need dinner on the table fast, is it possible to microwave frozen shepherd’s pie instead of turning on the oven? Specifically, can you zap Great Value’s frozen beef shepherd’s pie from Walmart? I decided to find out.
As a busy home cook and food blogger, I often rely on shortcuts like frozen meals when I’m pinched for time. But I don’t want to sacrifice taste or texture just for convenience. After experimenting with microwaving techniques, I developed a method that results in tender, hot shepherd’s pie ready in minutes.
About Great Value Frozen Shepherd’s Pie
First let’s go over the basics on this popular budget-friendly frozen meal
- Sold exclusively at Walmart
- Comes in a 32 oz microwave-safe tray
- Contains ground beef, peas, carrots, corn, and mashed potatoes
- Costs around $4-$5 per tray
- Can be cooked in the oven or microwave
This convenient frozen shepherd’s pie provides an easy, affordable complete meal when you don’t have time to cook from scratch. But how does it hold up when microwaved instead of baked in the oven?
Is Microwaving Shepherd’s Pie Possible?
Shepherd’s pie contains two different components – the ground beef and veggie filling and the mashed potato topping. This combo may seem tricky to microwave, but it’s doable with the right techniques.
The key is adjusting the microwave power and cooking time to ensure even heating throughout You have to pay special attention so the potato crust cooks through without becoming dried out or rubbery
After some trial runs, I developed a microwaving method that results in a hot, tasty shepherd’s pie with a texture similar to oven-baked. The filling is piping hot and the potatoes turn out creamy and tender.
Microwaving Instructions
Follow these steps for microwaving Great Value’s frozen beef shepherd’s pie:
- Leave the pie in its original microwave-safe container and remove the plastic film cover.
- Microwave on HIGH power for 2 minutes to begin defrosting.
- Remove from microwave and stir the filling well to distribute heat evenly.
- Return to microwave and cook on MEDIUM power (50%) in 2 minute increments, stirring between each session, until heated through (about 6-8 minutes total).
- Check that the filling is piping hot and potatoes are softened when pierced with a fork.
- Let stand for 2 minutes before eating to allow potatoes to fully absorb moisture and soften after microwaving.
The initial searing on high helps thaw and heat the bottom of the pie. Switching to medium power prevents the potato topping from drying out while ensuring the inside fills with heat. Stirring midway through is essential for even cooking.
Microwaving Tips for Shepherd’s Pie Perfection
Follow these tips and tricks for microwaving shepherd’s pie success:
- Keep the plastic film on during the first defrosting stage to hold in steam and quicken heating. Vent it after.
- Stir thoroughly between sessions to distribute heat evenly and prevent cold spots.
- Check for doneness before the full estimated cooking time, as microwaved food can be deceiving.
- Let the pie rest for 2 minutes so steam can absorb into the potatoes after microwaving.
- Jazz it up by adding extra toppings like shredded cheese, hot sauce, or sour cream after heating.
With the proper techniques, you can enjoy tasty homemade-quality shepherd’s pie in minutes with minimal effort.
Microwaving Shepherd’s Pie FAQs
How long does it take to microwave frozen shepherd’s pie? About 6-8 minutes total at medium power. Check often and stir during cooking.
Can shepherd’s pie get overcooked or dried out in the microwave? Yes, so it’s important not to heat too long. The potatoes can become dried and tough.
What microwave power level works best? Start at HIGH for 2 minutes, then switch to MEDIUM (50% power) for the remainder of cooking.
Should you microwave shepherd’s pie with the plastic film on or off? Keep it on for the initial defrosting stage, then vent it before continuing to microwave.
Do you need to defrost frozen shepherd’s pie before microwaving? You can microwave it straight from the freezer, but it may take a few extra minutes to heat through.
Time for a Taste Test
After developing my method, it was time to put it to the test. I tried microwaving two Great Value beef shepherd’s pies – one straight from the freezer and one I had defrosted overnight in the fridge.
I followed my microwaving instructions for both pies. The pre-thawed one heated slightly more evenly, but both turned out hot and steamy with a tender potato topping after microwaving. The filling had great flavor and seasoning.
While the microwave version wasn’t quite as tasty as oven-baked, it still hit the spot when I was craving shepherd’s pie but short on time. This budget pie will definitely remain a staple for my freezer.
Enjoy Quick Microwaved Shepherd’s Pie Tonight
With the right techniques, microwaving frozen shepherd’s pie is absolutely possible. Adjust the power levels and stir mid-cooking for the best results. Frozen Great Value beef shepherd’s pie from Walmart microwaves up tasty and comforting. Keep a few on hand for easy last minute meals.
Can You Microwave Great Value Beef Shepherd’s Pie?
The short answer is yes, you can microwave Great Value Beef Shepherd’s Pie. But there are some things you should remember to make sure your food is cooked just right and tastes great.
Firstly, it’s important to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging. You can cook Great Value Beef Shepherd’s Pie in either the oven or the microwave. The cooking times will be different for each method.
If you choose to use the microwave, take the pie out of the box and put it on a plate that can go in the microwave. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes, then use caution when removing the overwrap after cooking. Keep in mind that microwaves have different amounts of power, so you might need to change the cooking time.
This is another way to improve Great Value Beef Shepherd’s Pie: let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the pie to cool slightly and ensure that the filling is evenly distributed throughout.
Tips For Best Results When Microwaving Great Value Beef Shepherd’s Pie
Here are some additional tips to ensure the best results when microwaving Great Value Beef Shepherd’s Pie:
1. Use a plate that can go in the microwave. Make sure you use a plate that can go in the microwave to keep your microwave safe.
2. Stir the filling: After microwaving, stir the filling to ensure that it is evenly heated throughout. This will also help to distribute any excess moisture.
3. A food thermometer should be used to make sure that the pie has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F before it is served.
4. You can add more toppings to your shepherd’s pie if you want to change the taste or texture. Before you microwave it, try adding some shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or breadcrumbs on top.
5. Don’t cook it too long: If you cook the pie in the microwave for too long, the filling could get dry and moldy. Start with the recommended cooking time and adjust as needed based on your microwave’s power.
If you follow these tips, you can make Great Value Beef Shepherd’s Pie in the microwave and eat a tasty and filling meal.