Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you’re craving something hearty.
This classic dish combines a savory ground beef filling packed with vegetables, beef broth, and fragrant herbs, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
For an extra touch of indulgence, you can sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top, letting it bake until golden and bubbling.
Whether you’re making it from scratch or using shortcuts like store-bought mashed potatoes, Shepherd’s Pie is always a crowd-pleaser that satisfies every time!
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from scratch or store-bought)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the mixture thickens.
Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
To switch things up, you can easily substitute ground lamb or turkey for the beef to create a different flavor profile.
If you’re looking for a veggie-packed version, consider adding chopped mushrooms, corn, or green beans alongside the peas and carrots.
For a lighter twist, you can top the pie with mashed sweet potatoes or cauliflower instead of traditional mashed potatoes.
To save time, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes or pre-cut vegetables.
If you want a crispier topping, brush the mashed potatoes with melted butter before baking.
Lastly, for extra richness, mix a bit of cream or grated cheese into the mashed potatoes before layering them on top of the meat mixture.
Whatever variation you choose, be sure to let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
To store Shepherd’s Pie, first allow it to cool completely to avoid condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze it, you can portion it into individual servings or freeze the entire dish.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
Shepherd’s Pie can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When reheating, if frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
For a quick option, reheating in the microwave works well too, but make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).