Beef & Irish Death Beer 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)

Directions:

1. Prepare 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. 
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.