Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

Name: Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 1 cup peas; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting layers of this classic Shepherd's Pie with Ground Beef, where savory ground beef meets a medley of vegetables and is topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and cold nights, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table. Easy to prepare, it’s a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2025-11-26T13:43:57.222Z

This Shepherd's Pie recipe brings together the rich flavors of ground beef and vegetables, all topped with a fluffy layer of mashed potatoes. It's a dish that warms the heart and soul.

A Hearty Family Favorite

Shepherd's Pie with Ground Beef is a dish that has stood the test of time, loved by families across generations. The warm, comforting layers of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes make it a staple in many households. It's not just food, but a way to bring everyone together for a cozy meal, especially during cold nights when you crave something truly satisfying.

This recipe offers versatility; it can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some fresh thyme can elevate the flavors even further. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to adapt to your family's tastes and dietary needs while still appearing as a classic comfort meal at your dinner table.

Simplifying Comfort Food

Preparing Shepherd's Pie is straightforward, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. With a few simple steps, you can create a meal that feels like a labor of love without spending hours in the kitchen. The method involves cooking the filling, mashing the potatoes, and assembling everything in a baking dish—perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

Plus, this dish can be made in advance, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time, then simply assemble and bake when you're ready to eat. This not only saves time but also enhances the overall flavor as the ingredients meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Shepherd’s Pie pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pie and add a burst of color to your meal. Additionally, consider serving it with a hearty bread, like crusty French bread or whole-grain rolls, for dipping into the savory filling.

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, a glass of red wine complements the flavors of the dish nicely. Whether it's a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or a smooth Merlot, wine enhances the savory experience, making your family dinner feel like a special occasion, even on a regular weeknight.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
1 cup peas
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

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

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until translucent. Stir in the carrots, peas, and tomato paste, then add the beef broth and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash them with milk and butter until smooth. Season with salt.

Assemble the Pie

In a baking dish, layer the beef filling, then top with the mashed potatoes. Use a fork to create texture on the top.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Enjoy!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Shepherd's Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. When frozen properly, it can last for up to three months. Just remember to label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating can be done in the oven to maintain its delightful texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Variations to Try

While the classic version of Shepherd’s Pie uses beef, you can easily switch it up by using lamb for a more traditional rendition. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms to preserve that hearty texture while making it suitable for plant-based diets.

Feel free to mix in different vegetables according to what's in season or what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes can be used in place of regular potatoes for a unique twist on the topping, providing a touch of sweetness and color. Experimenting with herbs and spices will also add depth to the dish, ensuring you can make it your own every time you prepare it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats?

Yes, ground lamb is traditional, but you can use turkey or chicken as well.

→ Is Shepherd's Pie gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure your ingredients are gluten-free.