How to Make the Half-Shepherd's Pie from "Friends" — A Dish Joey Would Approve Of

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Even though this recipe in the series is associated with an epic failure, in reality, if prepared correctly, it can become a true culinary triumph!

In the ninth episode of "Friends" season six, Rachel decided to make a holiday dessert... and accidentally combined recipes for trifle and shepherd's pie. While everyone else looked at the dish with suspicion, Joey definitely liked it. And that means he had his reasons.

Today I checked out the "Official Cookbook" from the series by Amanda Yee and I'm excited to share the recipe for that famous half-shepherd's pie — but this time without the layer of custard, bananas, and jam.
Actress Jennifer Aniston smiling with a baking dish of potato casserole next to her
Rachel from "Friends" and potato casserole
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Just proven classics: meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes. This recipe works for sitcom fans and anyone who wants a cozy, hearty dinner with a touch of nostalgia.

What you'll need

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 carrots (sliced or diced)
  • 1/2 cup frozen green peas
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
  • 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3.5 oz tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1.5-2 lbs mashed potatoes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to make it

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet over high heat, warm the oil. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Season with salt and pepper. Add the carrots and caramelize for 2-3 minutes.
Actors Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc looking at a clear baking dish with casserole
Scene from "Friends" episode where Rachel made the casserole
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Push the vegetables to one side of the pan, add the ground beef and brown it (3-5 minutes). Season again. Add the peas, soy sauce, rosemary, broth, and tomato paste. Mix everything together and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid reduces by half.

Spread the mixture into small ramekins (or one large dish). Top with mashed potatoes. Smooth with a spoon. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown.

You'll end up with a cozy, hearty dish that even Chandler would happily eat — as long as he didn't know there wasn't supposed to be a layer of jam and custard. Serve with good vibes and "Friends" playing in the background. Just don't mention the recipe's from Rachel — you don't want to scare off your guests. Earlier on zoomboola.com we shared how to make Hagrid's "rock cakes" from "Harry Potter": quick, tasty, and no spells required.