Ground Beef Shepherds Pie

Name: Ground Beef Shepherds Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup peas and carrots (frozen or fresh); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rustic Meals

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Shepherds Pie on a cozy night in. The blend of seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a comforting dish that's perfect for satisfying hunger. I often whip this up when I want to impress my family or friends with a home-cooked meal that's both hearty and delicious. The layers meld together beautifully in the oven, and the savory aroma fills the house, making everyone anticipate the first bite.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:09:34.749Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen one rainy afternoon, I stumbled upon the perfect combination for Ground Beef Shepherds Pie. I started by browning the beef with onions and garlic to build a rich base flavor. Adding a mix of peas and carrots not only enhances the dish’s taste but also brightens it up visually. I’ve found that letting the flavors simmer together for a few minutes truly elevates the overall result.

When it comes to the mashed potatoes, I make them creamy with a touch of butter and milk. Piping them on top before baking gives it an appealing, rustic look while ensuring an even golden-brown crust. The secret is to bake it until it's bubbly and brown; this is when the flavors really come to life. It’s a delightful reminder of home and tradition that I love sharing with loved ones.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A warm and hearty comfort food for chilly evenings
Layers of flavor that create a satisfying meal
Uses simple, wholesome ingredients, making it accessible and easy to prepare

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of any great Shepherd's Pie starts with the right choice of ground beef. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for its balance of fat and flavor. The fat content helps in rendering a juicy beef mixture, ensuring that each bite is satisfying. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey can serve as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Another essential ingredient is the beef broth, which infuses the filling with deep, savory richness. Choosing a low-sodium broth allows for better control of seasoning, preventing the dish from becoming overly salty. You can also make your own broth ahead of time, which can enhance the layers of flavor in the pie.

Perfecting Your Mashed Potatoes

For the mashed potatoes, the choice of potatoes can make a substantial difference. While russets are popular for their fluffy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes provide a creamy richness that pairs wonderfully with the beef filling. When boiling, aim for uniform cube sizes to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they're ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.

Be cautious while mashing; over-mashing can turn potatoes gummy. Instead, opt for a potato ricer or a hand masher for a light, fluffy consistency. Adding butter first allows the potatoes to absorb the fat properly, enhancing the creaminess when milk is mixed in. I often warm the milk before adding it to maintain the comforting warmth of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Shepherds Pie:

For the Beef Filling:

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

For the Mashed Potatoes:

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

Make sure to have everything measured out before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bring your Shepherds Pie to life:

Prepare the Beef Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned. Add the peas and carrots, then mix in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Pour in the beef broth, and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5–10 minutes.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the beef is simmering, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well, then return potatoes to the pot. Mash with butter, milk, and season with salt and pepper until creamy.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes, using a fork to create peaks on top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese into the mashed potatoes before baking. You can also customize the vegetables in the beef filling based on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Shepherd's Pie stands strong as a main dish, but pairing it with a simple arugula salad can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. A squeeze of fresh lemon or a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette can brighten the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. Additionally, serving some crusty bread on the side allows guests to scoop up any delightful juices left in the dish.

For those who want to elevate their meal, consider topping each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh aroma that complements the warm and hearty flavors of the pie.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Shepherd's Pie is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the beef filling and mashed potatoes a day in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together overnight, enhancing the dish when baked. When ready to bake, simply assemble the pie and pop it in the oven, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to account for the chilled ingredients.

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t fret! Shepherd's Pie reheats beautifully. Cover individual servings with foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 25 minutes, or until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze assembled Shepherd's Pie before baking. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and bake directly from frozen, which may take up to 1 hour.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Shepherds Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time, assemble the pie, and store it in the fridge for up to two days before baking.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or lentils can be great substitutes for ground beef, making the pie a bit lighter and still flavorful.

→ Can I freeze Shepherds Pie?

Yes, Shepherds Pie freezes well! Just make sure to cover it tightly before freezing. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, cover the Shepherds Pie with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.