This Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for cozy nights. It features a layer of savory ground beef topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Yum!
This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl! I love how the comforting flavors mix together, and there’s always room for seconds. Who can resist that cheesy potato topping? 🥔❤️
I like to serve it with a side salad for a little crunch. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers. Just reheat and enjoy all over again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Lentils or a meat substitute also work great for a vegetarian version.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness. If you don’t have one, shallots or green onions can be used instead. They deliver a nice flavor too!
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: These add color and nutrition. If you prefer fresh, use peas, carrots, and corn directly. You can also use any vegetable you like; just chop them small so they cook through.
Beef Broth: For richness, use beef broth, but feel free to sub with vegetable broth for a lighter taste or chicken stock if that’s what you have on hand.
Mashed Potatoes: The base of the topping! If you want to skip the potatoes, try mashed cauliflower for a low-carb alternative. You could also use instant mashed potatoes for quicker prep.
How Can I Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Making creamy mashed potatoes is key to this dish. It’s all about the right technique and ingredients! Here’s how to make them perfectly:
- Start with peeled and chopped potatoes. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot to help evaporate excess moisture.
- Add in butter and warm milk gradually while mashing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Be gentle when mashing; avoid overworking the potatoes as they can become gummy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste!
How to Make Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and milk)
- 2 tbsp butter (for mashed potatoes)
Optional Toppings:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Shepherd’s Pie takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 25 minutes of baking time. In total, expect to spend about 40 minutes to have this comforting dish ready to serve. It’s perfect for a family dinner or whenever you need a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the pie will bake evenly and come out nice and hot!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook them together until the onion turns translucent, about 4-5 minutes. This will add wonderful flavor to the filling!
4. Mix in Sauces and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s fully combined, infusing those flavors into the meat.
5. Add Vegetables and Broth:
To the beef mixture, add the frozen mixed vegetables and beef broth. Stir well and allow everything to simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This will help the mixture thicken slightly and cook the veggies.
6. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
While your filling is simmering, prepare the mashed potatoes. If you’ve got boiled potatoes ready, mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until they’re smooth and creamy. If you need a quick way, just use instant mashed potatoes!
7. Assemble the Pie:
Grab a baking dish and transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into it. Spread it out evenly. Then, spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the beef mixture, making sure it’s fully covered. Use a fork to add some texture to the surface if you like!
8. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes. This will create a delicious, melty topping during baking!
9. Bake the Shepherd’s Pie:
Place your assembled Shepherd’s Pie into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and slightly crispy.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh touch. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy your homemade Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute for ground beef. Just be mindful that it may require a bit less cooking time, so keep an eye on it while it cooks.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or even vegetable stock for a lighter flavor. If you want to use water, consider adding in some more seasoning or a splash of soy sauce for added depth.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this Shepherd’s Pie gluten-free, use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure the beef broth is also gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, but double-check any packaged items.
Can I Freeze Shepherd’s Pie?
Yes! You can freeze Shepherd’s Pie either before or after baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until heated through.