Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort to your table. With savory ground beef and veggies topped with creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a family favorite!
When I make this, I love how the fluffy potatoes mix with the rich filling. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: We’re using good old-fashioned russet potatoes for a smooth mash. If you want a creamier texture, you could try Yukon Golds or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is ideal, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian version, lentils make a great substitute!
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies work just fine! If you have fresh vegetables on hand, like carrots, peas, or green beans, chop them up and use those instead. It’s a perfect way to use up leftovers.
Beef Broth: Homemade beef broth tastes great, but store-bought works in a pinch. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth or even mushroom broth for added depth.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top is optional but adds a delicious flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a plant-based cheese to keep it tasty.
How Do You Get Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Create the perfect mashed potatoes by making sure you start with properly cooked potatoes. Here’s how:
- Bring salted water to a boil before adding potatoes. This helps them cook evenly.
- Drain them well after boiling to avoid mushy potatoes; any extra water will make them gummy.
- When mashing, add melted butter and warm milk gradually until you reach your desired creaminess. Taste and season well!
Remember, it’s better to add milk slowly. You can always add more if needed, but you can’t take away!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ground Beef for Shepherd’s Pie?
Cooking ground beef well brings out its best flavor. Here’s a simple way:
- Heat olive oil, then add chopped onions first. This helps them soften before adding garlic.
- Once the onions are translucent, add the minced garlic to give it a nice kick.
- Add the beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Don’t rush this! Browning creates depth of flavor, so let it cook until it’s completely browned.
Always drain excess fat after browning; it keeps the dish from being greasy. Following these steps will ensure a hearty filling for your pie!
How to Make Beef Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 cup milk (plus more as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
For Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Beef Shepherd’s Pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, making a total of roughly 40-45 minutes. The end result is a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). You’ll want it nice and hot for baking the pie so it becomes golden and bubbly.
2. Boil the Potatoes:
In a large pot, add your peeled and chopped potatoes. Fill it with enough salted water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain them well.
3. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
In the same pot, mash the potatoes with 2 tablespoons of butter and 1/2 cup of milk until they are smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste. If they seem too thick, just add a splash more milk. Set these aside for now.
4. Cook the Beef Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its lovely aroma.
5. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 7-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it out.
6. Add the Veggies and Flavor:
Stir in the tomato paste, mixed vegetables, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Assemble the Pie:
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Next, take your creamy mashed potatoes and spread them over the top, smoothing it out with a spatula or fork. If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes for extra flavor!
8. Bake the Shepherd’s Pie:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s finished baking, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your delicious and hearty Beef Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn, you can use any veggies you have on hand. Chopped green beans, bell peppers, or even mushrooms would work well. Just ensure they are cooked until tender.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a healthier or different option, ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives and will still have a tasty outcome. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or black beans instead!
Can I Make This Shepherd’s Pie Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the beef filling and mashed potatoes in advance. Just assemble them in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and adjust the baking time as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a bit of milk to the mashed potatoes to help revive their creaminess!