This comforting Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a winner on chilly nights! It features tasty ground beef, veggies, and a fluffy mashed potato topping that is just heavenly.
It’s like a warm hug in a dish! I love how easy it is to throw together. Just layer it up and pop it in the oven – family will gather around for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty without excess fat. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. For a vegetarian twist, consider plant-based ground meat alternatives!
Onion: A yellow onion is great for its sweetness. However, white or even red onions can be used if that’s all you have. They add a different flavor but still work nicely.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: I find frozen mixed veggies convenient, but you can use any fresh veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. Just chop them up and adjust cooking time as needed.
Beef Broth: If you need a substitution, use vegetable broth for a non-meat version. Also, feel free to use homemade broth for a deeper flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: While optional, I love adding cheddar for richness. You can substitute with mozzarella or even omit it for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Mashing potatoes might seem simple, but getting it just right makes all the difference! Start with the right potatoes. I prefer using russet or Yukon gold as they give a creamy texture.
- Peel and chop the potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Test with a fork; they should easily fall apart.
- Drain well, then add butter and milk or cream for extra creaminess. Mash until smooth, but avoid over-mashing as this can make them gluey.
- Season with salt and pepper. Taste to adjust the seasoning!
How to Make Beef Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ lbs (700g) ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (made from about 4 large potatoes)
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup milk or cream
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting Beef Shepherd’s Pie will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. The total time will be about 45-50 minutes, making it a perfect dish for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your Shepherd’s Pie bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden top!
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Peel and chop the potatoes into even pieces, then boil them in a pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once they’re soft, drain the water, then mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, then set aside.
3. Cook the Beef Filling:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat after cooking. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened.
4. Add Flavor and Vegetables:
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary. Give this mix a good stir and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld. Then, add the frozen mixed vegetables and beef broth, simmering everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper!
5. Assemble the Pie:
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading them so that they cover the beef completely. If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes for an extra cheesy top!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Using a fork, create some texture on the surface of the mashed potatoes; this helps them crisp up nicely in the oven. Bake your Shepherd’s Pie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty and comforting Beef Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even ground lamb for a traditional twist. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based ground meat or a mix of mushrooms and lentils for texture and flavor.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Leftover Beef Shepherd’s Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave portions for a quick meal. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months; thaw completely and reheat before serving!
Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead of Frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used! Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the skillet. You may need to sauté them a bit longer to ensure they’re tender before adding the beef broth.
How Do I Achieve Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
To achieve perfectly creamy mashed potatoes, use starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon gold. Boil them until fork-tender, then drain and mash with butter and warm milk or cream until smooth. Avoid over-mashing to prevent them from becoming gluey!
