Shepherd’s Pie is the epitome of comfort food. With layers of savory ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping, this dish is both filling and satisfying. While traditionally made with lamb, using ground beef is a popular variation that is equally delicious and a bit more budget-friendly. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making a Shepherd’s Pie with ground beef and mashed potatoes that’s perfect for dinner, meal prep, or serving to guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Shepherd’s Pie, you will need a few basic ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make a delicious version of this classic dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter (for the mashed potatoes)
- 1/2 cup milk (for the mashed potatoes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef & Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
The mashed potatoes form the crown of your Shepherd’s Pie, so you want them creamy and fluffy. Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place the potatoes in a pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they’re tender (about 15-20 minutes). Once the potatoes are fork-tender, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if needed.
Now it’s time to add flavor to the meat mixture. Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well. Add the frozen peas and carrots (or your choice of mixed vegetables) along with the beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly. This will create a rich and savory filling for your Shepherd’s Pie.
Step 3: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly at the bottom. Then, spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading them gently to cover the filling completely. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to smooth the top. For a decorative touch, you can use the spoon to create a textured surface on the mashed potatoes, which will brown nicely in the oven.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Place the assembled Shepherd’s Pie into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Once the Shepherd’s Pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve this dish with a side salad or your favorite vegetables for a wholesome, complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
This Shepherd’s Pie with ground beef is a quick and easy take on the traditional version, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a dish that everyone will love. It’s also incredibly customizable—feel free to swap out the vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or add cheese to the mashed potatoes for an extra indulgent touch.
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a complete meal in one dish, making it ideal for families or gatherings. Plus, it stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers the next day.
Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie
- For extra flavor, consider adding a little bit of cheese to the mashed potatoes or mixing some grated cheese into the beef and vegetable mixture.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty and plant-based alternative.
- To make the dish gluten-free, be sure to check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and use a gluten-free broth if necessary.
- You can also make this Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time. Simply assemble it in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts on Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef & Mashed Potatoes
Shepherd’s Pie with ground beef and mashed potatoes is a comforting and satisfying meal that can easily become a family favorite. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and contentment, especially during colder months. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this version of Shepherd’s Pie is a fantastic option for busy cooks who still want to enjoy a homemade, delicious dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this hearty meal is sure to please everyone at the table.