Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Name: Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting classic, this Ground Beef Shepherd's Pie is a hearty dish that combines rich ground beef with a savory vegetable medley, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:48:42.523Z

This Ground Beef Shepherd's Pie is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of seasoned ground beef and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, is sure to please everyone!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for cold nights
Delicious layers of flavor in every bite
Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time

      

The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals

There's something incredibly satisfying about a home-cooked meal, especially one that evokes feelings of nostalgia. Ground Beef Shepherd's Pie is a dish that many remember fondly from childhood, often served during family gatherings or cozy winter evenings. The combination of savory beef and creamy mashed potatoes creates a warm embrace on a plate, making it the ultimate comfort food.

This recipe not only warms the heart but also nourishes the body. With protein from the ground beef and vitamins from the vegetables, it’s a well-rounded meal that can fuel you through the day. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover vegetables you might have sitting in your fridge, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Shepherd's Pie is its versatility. While this recipe features ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian version. The vegetable medley can also be adjusted based on what you have on hand, making it a flexible option for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Additionally, Shepherd's Pie is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, allowing for easy reheating on those days when you need a quick meal. Just pop it in the oven, and in no time, you'll have a delicious dinner ready to go.

Tips for Perfecting Your Shepherd's Pie

To ensure your Shepherd's Pie turns out perfectly, consider the texture of your mashed potatoes. For an extra creamy topping, use starchy potatoes like Russets and don't skimp on the butter and milk. A little extra seasoning in the mash can elevate the overall flavor of the dish as well.

When layering your pie, make sure to spread the beef filling evenly to avoid uneven cooking. Topping it off with a thick layer of mashed potatoes not only provides a delightful contrast in textures but also helps to seal in the savory flavors from the filling. A sprinkle of cheese on top can add a golden crust that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
1 cup frozen peas
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready before starting your cooking process for best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Cook the Beef Filling

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the carrots and peas, followed by the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing them out to cover the filling completely.

Bake the Shepherd's Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy this delicious shepherd's pie with your family!

Storing and Reheating Shepherd's Pie

If you have leftovers, storing Shepherd's Pie is easy. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

For longer storage, consider freezing it. Make sure the pie is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Pairing Suggestions

Shepherd's Pie pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and beverages. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pie, adding a refreshing crunch. You might also consider serving it with steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.

As for drinks, a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, complements the flavors beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon can cleanse the palate and enhance your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or lamb for the ground beef.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes a day in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with shepherd's pie?

Shepherd's pie is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad for added freshness.

→ Can I freeze shepherd's pie?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just cover it tightly and it will last for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.