This Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and hearty dish topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s packed with savory ground beef and mixed veggies, making every bite comforting.
I love how this pie is like a big hug on a plate! It’s perfect for cozy nights at home or when friends come over. Just pop it in the oven, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for flavor and moisture. If you prefer, turkey or plant-based ground meat works great as substitutes.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies make this recipe easy and quick. You can use fresh veggies like carrots, peas, and corn if available. Just chop them up and add a little more cooking time.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for mashing due to their starchy texture. You could also try Yukon Gold for a creamier mash. Sweet potatoes are a fun twist too!
Beef Broth: Homemade beef broth tastes fabulous, but store-bought works just as well. You can swap it for vegetable broth for a lighter version.
How Do I Get the Mashed Potatoes Just Right?
Getting the mashed potatoes creamy and fluffy is key to a great Shepherd’s Pie. Here’s how:
- Boil the potatoes until they’re fork-tender. Overcooking slightly can help them mash easier.
- Drain well and let them sit for a minute to release excess steam.
- Add warm butter and milk (or cream) gradually for smooth texture.
- Don’t over-mix; just mash until combined for the fluffiest results!
Adding a pinch of salt while mashing brings out the flavor. Enjoy making it your own!
Beef Shepherd’s Pie Delivered
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beef Shepherd’s Pie takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a great option for a cozy dinner that’s both comforting and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when your pie is ready to bake. While it’s heating up, gather all your ingredients to make the cooking process smooth.
2. Boil the Potatoes
In a large pot, add the peeled and chopped potatoes along with a pinch of salt. Cover them with water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15 minutes or until they are tender enough to mash. Once they are ready, drain the water and mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth. Set them aside.
3. Cook the Meat Mixture
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as you go.
4. Add Flavorful Ingredients
Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together.
5. Incorporate the Vegetables
Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 8-10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. It’s starting to smell amazing!
6. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
Take the beef and vegetable mixture and spoon it evenly into individual oven-safe dishes or one large baking dish. Top it with the creamy mashed potatoes, smoothing them out with a fork to create a nice texture on top–feel free to get creative with designs!
7. Bake the Pie
Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown. This is where the magic happens as everything cooks together.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let your Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley. It’s perfect served warm, alongside some extra steamed vegetables if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal that feels just like delivery from your favorite place!
Can I Use Leftover Meat for This Pie?
Absolutely! Leftover roast beef or even ground turkey makes great substitutes. Just make sure to adjust seasonings to taste, as leftovers can vary in flavor.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative like lentils, mushrooms, or veggie crumbles. Just sauté them the same way you would the meat for the best texture and flavor.
How Can I Make Shepherd’s Pie in Advance?
You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, assemble the pie and just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at a low temperature or microwave, ensuring it’s heated thoroughly. You can add a splash of broth to keep it moist while reheating!