Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef Recipe

One evening, I needed to make something hearty and comforting for dinner, but I also wanted to use ingredients I already had at home. I had ground beef, potatoes, and some frozen vegetables—so I decided to make a simple shepherd’s pie.

This recipe has been a family favorite ever since. It’s warm, filling, and the perfect meal for a cozy night. The seasoned ground beef, mixed vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes come together in one dish that’s easy to prepare and always satisfying.

Servings	Total
6	50mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first learned how to make shepherd’s pie from a neighbor who swore by it as the best way to use up leftovers. Over the years, I’ve made my own version, keeping it simple but still packed with rich flavors. Now, it’s one of my go-to meals when I want something hearty and homemade.

Why Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a great meal because it’s comforting, budget-friendly, and easy to make with simple ingredients. The combination of seasoned beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes makes it a well-balanced dish that the whole family loves. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers!

What Is Shepherd’s Pie Made Of?

This dish is made with a few basic ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Onion and garlic
• Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce
• Beef broth
• Mashed potatoes (made with potatoes, butter, and milk)

What to Have with Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:

• A simple green salad: Adds freshness and balances the richness.
• Roasted vegetables: Such as Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans.
• Bread or dinner rolls: Perfect for scooping up every last bite.

Is Shepherd’s Pie Healthy?

Shepherd’s pie can be a nutritious meal, especially when made with lean ground beef and plenty of vegetables. You can also make a lighter version by using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes or swapping ground turkey for beef.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling potatoes
• Baking dish
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Potato masher

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and diced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
   • Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
   • Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
   • Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and frozen vegetables. Let simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish.
   • Spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading them evenly with a spoon or spatula.
4. Bake:
   • Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden.
5. Serve:
   • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

• For extra flavor, add shredded cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking.
• If you like a crispy topping, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
• To make it ahead, assemble the pie and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pie and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Shepherd’s pie with ground beef is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for leftovers to enjoy the next day, this recipe is always a great choice. Try it out, and it just might become a regular dish in your home too!

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