There’s nothing quite like a bubbling dish of Shepherd’s Pie coming out of the oven—golden mashed potatoes on top, a rich savory beef filling underneath, and the kind of cozy flavor that makes you want to grab a big spoonful right away. This recipe is one of my go-to classics because it’s hearty, comforting, and made with simple pantry staples. It’s the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table and fills the kitchen with warmth.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner, Beef Recipes | 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings | ~420 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or ground lamb if you prefer)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced small
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (made from about 2 pounds potatoes, butter, and milk)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing the top)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cook the filling: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add veggies: Stir in onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Build the sauce: Mix in tomato paste and flour, stirring to coat the meat and vegetables. Slowly add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in peas at the end.
- Assemble the pie: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes over the top and smooth with a spatula.
- Bake: Brush the top with melted butter. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and lightly crisp.
- Serve & enjoy: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving so the filling sets.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Use freshly mashed potatoes for the creamiest topping, but leftover mashed potatoes work great too.
- To make the potato topping extra golden, place the dish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap: Try ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
- Dairy Swap: Use Greek yogurt or plant-based milk in your mashed potatoes if you prefer lighter dairy options.
- Veggie Boost: Add corn, mushrooms, or green beans to the filling for more texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Shepherd’s Pie with:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts.
- A refreshing fruit spritzer or iced herbal tea for a cozy, family-friendly pairing.
Conclusion
This homemade Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a Sunday family meal, it’s sure to win everyone over. Gather your loved ones, serve it hot from the oven, and enjoy every cozy bite.