This Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and cozy meal that everyone loves. With layers of tasty ground beef, mixed veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes on top, it’s comfort food at its best!
Making this dish feels like a big hug on a plate. I often sneak in some extra veggies to make it even heartier. It’s so simple to whip up and perfect for a family dinner!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually prefer using lean ground beef (80/20) for my shepherd’s pie. You can swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking to make it vegetarian.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add great flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can work in a smaller amount. I love sautéing them until fragrant as it really enhances the dish.
Veggies: The combination of peas, corn, carrots, and bell pepper adds color and nutrition. Feel free to use other vegetables like green beans or even diced potatoes based on what you have available.
Toppings: I recommend using creamy mashed potatoes for the topping. If you’re looking for a twist, try sweet potatoes. Also, for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk or vegan butter in the mashed potatoes.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but if you like things a bit cheesier, feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack. For a sharper flavor, try aged white cheddar!
How Do I Properly Cook Ground Beef for Shepherd’s Pie?
Cooking the ground beef properly is crucial for great flavor. First, make sure your skillet is hot enough to brown the beef. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the ground beef in chunks to avoid steaming. Let it sear before breaking it apart.
- Cook until well browned, which adds depth of flavor. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Don’t skip seasoning! Add salt and pepper while it cooks for better flavor absorption.
How to Make Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Filling:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup diced carrots (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and milk)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shepherd’s pie will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect to spend around 40-45 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect meal for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important so that your shepherd’s pie bakes evenly and the cheese gets nice and golden.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef into the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, using a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it out. This will keep the dish from being too greasy.
4. Add the Veggies:
Toss in the diced carrots, red bell pepper, peas, and corn into the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors mingle and the veggies get tender.
5. Mix in the Seasonings:
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
Remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom.
7. Spread the Mashed Potatoes:
Spoon your prepared mashed potatoes over the beef mixture, spreading them out evenly to cover the entire surface. This creamy layer is the best part!
8. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the mashed potatoes. This will give your shepherd’s pie a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes.
9. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and nicely golden brown on top.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take the shepherd’s pie out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie with family or friends, and feel the warmth of this comforting dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great, lean alternative that will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it can be slightly drier, so you might want to add a bit more broth to keep it moist.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
If you’d like to make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with a mix of lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor!
Can I Prepare Shepherd’s Pie in Advance?
Yes, you can make shepherd’s pie ahead of time! Assemble it up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 1 day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled from the fridge.
What Should I Serve with Shepherd’s Pie?
Shepherd’s pie is a hearty meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. It also pairs well with crusty bread for dipping!
