MAKE AHEAD SOUTHWEST CATTLE RANCHER'S PIE

Steps:

• In a large nonstick skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and mushrooms over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are wilted and pan liquids are absorbed, about 6 minutes.
• Crumble in the ground sirloin and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is well browned, about 5 minutes.
• Drain off any excess fat.
• Add the oregano, thyme, cumin, and pepper.
• Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir.
• Add the beef broth, wine, and tomato paste.
• Stir until well combined.
• Line a 2-quart casserole with a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil large enough to completely enclose the casserole.
• Lightly spray the foil inside the casserole with cooking spray.
• Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared casserole.
• Set aside while you prepare the topping.
• Place the potatoes in a pot of boiling water to cover.
• Reduce the heat and simmer until tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 to 20 minutes; drain.
• Mash the potatoes, adding sufficient skim milk until the potatoes are fluffy.
• Stir in the salt (if using), minced jalapeño chiles, cilantro, and scallion.
• Spoon the potato mixture onto the top of the meat mixture, making swirls with the back of a spoon.
• Sprinkle with paprika and cheese.
• Cover the casserole and freeze until solid.
• Lift the food out of the casserole (the foil will adhere), wrap securely in the foil, then slip the package into a self-sealing plastic freezer bag or overwrap in additional foil or freezer paper.
• Label with the casserole name and the date.
• Use within 3 months.
• When ready to bake, unwrap the casserole and place back in the casserole dish to bake.
• Defrost completely.
• Then bake at 375°F for 40 to 45 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
• (Since the casserole will be full, it may bubble over, so place a sheet of aluminum foil under the casserole to catch any drips.) Serve hot.