Shepherd’s Pie with ground beef and mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying. This classic dish features a rich, savory beef and vegetable filling topped with a thick layer of creamy mashed potatoes, then baked until golden and bubbling. While traditionally made with lamb, this ground beef version has become a beloved variation thanks to its accessibility and familiar flavor.
Perfect for family dinners, cozy weekends, or make-ahead meals, Shepherd’s Pie is a one-dish wonder that brings together protein, vegetables, and starch in every bite. It’s comforting, nourishing, and timeless.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s wholesome and nostalgic, yet incredibly practical. It uses simple ingredients, feeds a crowd, and tastes even better the next day. The contrast between the creamy mashed potatoes and the rich, savory beef filling makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
- Classic comfort food loved by all ages
- A complete, balanced meal in one dish
- Perfect for make-ahead and meal prep
- Budget-friendly and filling
- Freezer-friendly and reheats beautifully
Preparation Details
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings & Nutrition
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 420–460 calories per serving
Course & Cuisine
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: British / Irish-Inspired
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk or cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooking Directions
- Prepare mashed potatoes until creamy.
- Cook beef and vegetable filling until thick and flavorful.
- Assemble layers in baking dish.
- Bake until golden and bubbling.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender. Drain, mash with butter and milk, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly. Stir in ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in beef broth and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in peas and carrots.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes on top and spread smoothly. Use a fork to create texture.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the top is lightly golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes if desired.
How to Serve
- Serve hot straight from the oven
- Pair with green beans or a simple salad
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives
- Enjoy as a complete meal on its own
Recipe Tips
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for extra creaminess
- Let the pie rest 10 minutes before serving
- Season each layer for best flavor
- Use a fork on the potatoes for a crispy top
Variations
Traditional Shepherd’s Pie
Use ground lamb instead of beef.
Cheesy Topping
Mix shredded cheddar into the mashed potatoes.
Vegetarian Version
Use lentils or mushrooms in place of beef.
Low-Carb Option
Top with mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.
Spicy Shepherd’s Pie
Add chili flakes or paprika to the beef filling.
Freezing and Storage
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days
Freezing
- Freeze unbaked or baked Shepherd’s Pie for up to 3 months
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating
Special Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Potato masher
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Oven
Conclusion
Shepherd’s Pie with ground beef and mashed potatoes is a comforting classic that never goes out of style. Hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully filling, it’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights at home. With its creamy topping and rich savory filling, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite—making it a recipe worth returning to again and again.
Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes
Description
Shepherd’s Pie with ground beef and mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying. This classic dish features a rich, savory beef and vegetable filling topped with a thick layer of creamy mashed potatoes, then baked until golden and bubbling. While traditionally made with lamb, this ground beef version has become a beloved variation thanks to its accessibility and familiar flavor.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes
For the Beef Filling
Instructions
-
Make the Mashed Potatoes : Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender. Drain, mash with butter and milk, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
-
Cook the Beef Filling : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly. Stir in ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
-
Build the Flavor : Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in beef broth and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in peas and carrots.
-
Assemble the Pie : Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes on top and spread smoothly. Use a fork to create texture.
-
Bake : Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the top is lightly golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes if desired.
