Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

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Comfort food doesn’t get more classic than Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef. This hearty dish brings together a rich, savory meat and vegetable filling crowned with a golden layer of creamy mashed potatoes. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel wrapped in warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or need a comforting make-ahead meal, this recipe is your go-to.

With simple ingredients and bold flavor, this version of shepherd’s pie uses seasoned ground beef instead of lamb for a more accessible and familiar taste. Bursting with colorful veggies and a beefy, gravy-like sauce, then topped with a blanket of buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes, it bakes up to perfection with a beautifully crisp top and bubbling bottom. Pure comfort, layered and baked.

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Why You’ll Love This Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

• Family-friendly favorite: It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially for picky eaters.
• Budget-conscious: Uses pantry staples and affordable ground beef.
• Make-ahead magic: Perfect for prepping in advance and reheating later.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or cheese toppings.
• One-dish wonder: Entire meal in a single pan—less cleanup!

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect shepherd’s pie, you don’t need fancy equipment, but a few essentials make the process smoother:

• Large skillet or sauté pan: For browning the beef and cooking down the veggie mix. A nonstick or cast iron pan works great.
• Potato masher or electric mixer: To achieve that irresistibly fluffy mashed potato topping.
• Baking dish (9×13-inch): This helps layer everything evenly and bakes the pie uniformly.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and spreading layers smoothly.
• Colander: Useful when draining boiled potatoes before mashing.

These simple tools will have you layering and baking like a pro. The key is even layers and good seasoning throughout—a well-loved skillet and a sturdy baking dish make all the difference.

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Ingredients for the Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

Each ingredient in this shepherd’s pie serves a purpose, building both texture and flavor:

• Ground beef: The hearty base of the dish, seasoned and browned to perfection.
• Yellow onion: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic cloves: Provide a savory backbone that enhances the overall richness.
• Frozen peas and carrots mix: Brings color, texture, and a touch of sweetness.
• Corn kernels: Adds a pop of sweetness and contrast to the savory filling.
• Tomato paste: Deepens the flavor and enriches the sauce with umami.
• Beef broth: Forms the flavorful, gravy-like sauce that binds the filling.
• Worcestershire sauce: Boosts the umami factor with tangy richness.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy and fluffy, this forms the golden topping.
• Butter and milk: Key for creating rich, smooth mashed potatoes.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring balance and flavor.

How To Make the Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat. Stir in chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Filling

Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine. Mix in the frozen peas, carrots, and corn. Let the mixture simmer until the sauce thickens slightly and the vegetables are heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the filling simmers, boil peeled potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter and warm milk until creamy. Adjust salt to your liking.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the beef and veggie mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Dollop the mashed potatoes over the filling, then gently spread them out to cover completely. Use a fork to create ridges for a crispy texture when baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the shepherd’s pie for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling at the edges. If desired, broil for 2–3 minutes to crisp up the mashed potato topping further.

Let it rest a few minutes before serving—this helps it hold together when slicing.

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How to Serve and Store Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

Serve your shepherd’s pie warm straight from the oven, paired with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. This dish shines at dinner tables, potlucks, or anytime you need a satisfying comfort fix. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh thyme for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Leftovers? Even better. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or pop the whole dish back in the oven covered with foil until heated through. It also freezes beautifully: wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make shepherd’s pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the entire pie a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as instructed, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cold.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While traditional shepherd’s pie uses lamb, ground turkey or chicken also work well for a lighter version. Just adjust seasoning to suit.

How do I get the mashed potato topping crispy?

Use a fork to create texture on top of the mashed potatoes before baking. For extra crispness, broil for the last few minutes.

Can I add cheese to the topping?

Absolutely! Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan over the mashed potatoes before baking for a cheesy, golden finish.

What veggies can I substitute?

Try green beans, mushrooms, or diced zucchini. This recipe is flexible, so use what you have on hand.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, if you ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.

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Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If this Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef hit the spot, here are some other hearty and delicious meals to add to your recipe box:

• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for cozy vibes in every bite.
• Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta that’s creamy, cheesy, and weeknight-friendly.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a comforting baked pasta with layers of cheesy goodness.
• Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta for a simple but satisfying Italian-style dinner.
• Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe when you need something quick, filling, and minimal fuss.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you sneak in extra cheese? Swap the veggies? Add a splash of hot sauce?

I love hearing how you put your spin on things. Share your tips, twists, or questions—let’s keep our kitchens delicious and creative.

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