This warm and comforting Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie is perfect for chilly days! With tender meat, tasty veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes on top, it’s a meal everyone will love.
Honestly, there’s nothing better than coming home to this delicious smell wafting from the kitchen. I like to serve it with a side salad for a colorful touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. You can use ground lamb for a traditional Shepherd’s Pie or ground turkey for a leaner option.
Frozen Vegetables: The frozen peas and carrots mix is convenient, but you can swap it for fresh veggies like diced carrots and peas if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly.
Beef Broth: If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium beef broth. Vegetable broth can also be used for a vegetarian twist, just swap out the meat for lentils or mushrooms!
Mashed Potatoes: You can use leftover mashed potatoes or even instant potatoes for ease. For a twist, try sweet potatoes or cauliflower mash for a healthier option.
How Do I Get My Ground Beef So Flavorful?
The first step to delicious ground beef is properly browning it. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat, and don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows the beef to sear instead of steam.
- Cook until it’s fully browned and you see some crispy bits; this deepens the flavor.
- Don’t forget to drain excess fat to keep the dish balanced and prevent it from being greasy.
These little details go a long way to enhance the overall taste of your Shepherd’s Pie!
Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared ahead or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting Shepherd’s Pie will require about 15-20 minutes of prep time and then cooks in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. It’s perfect to set and forget while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until fully browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking, so your dish isn’t greasy!
2. Add Onion and Garlic:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the onion is soft—this will take around 3-4 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
3. Thicken the Mixture:
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the meat mixture, stirring well to coat everything. Let it cook for about 1 minute. This helps to thicken the filling later on.
4. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer the beef mixture into your crockpot. Then, add in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, frozen peas and carrots, and frozen corn. Season generously with salt and pepper! Mix everything well.
5. Let It Cook:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. You’re looking for tender veggies and a nicely thickened filling when it’s ready!
6. Add the Mashed Potatoes:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the filling in the crockpot. This creates a cozy blanket for all those delicious flavors underneath!
7. Cheese It Up:
Now sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes. The cheese will melt into a lovely gooey layer.
8. Finish Cooking:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on HIGH for an additional 20-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are heated through.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color before serving. Dish it up and enjoy your hearty, homemade Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie!
This recipe is all about comfort and warmth, bringing everyone together at the table. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavors may be slightly milder, so you might want to enhance the seasoning a bit.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it meat-free!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days before adding the mashed potatoes. Just be sure to warm it up slightly before putting it in the crockpot, then add the mashed potatoes and cook as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat until heated through. Enjoy your leftovers for a quick and comforting meal!