Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes is a classic comfort food dish that combines savory ground meat, vegetables, and a rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or special occasion. The golden-baked mashed potato topping creates a beautiful crust that perfectly complements the savory filling beneath.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting, classic dish that’s full of rich flavors and satisfying textures. Made with seasoned ground meat, a mix of vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is perfect for any night of the week. The savory filling, combined with a golden, crispy potato topping, makes for a meal that’s both delicious and hearty.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or making it for a special occasion, Shepherd’s Pie is a versatile dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Meat Filling
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mashed Potato Topping
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 4-5 medium potatoes)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or lamb until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Sprinkle the flour over the meat mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined and simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- If not using leftover mashed potatoes, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture in the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes.
Step 3: Bake the Shepherd’s Pie
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are lightly golden and the filling is bubbling.
- If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to create a golden crust on the mashed potatoes.
Step 4: Serve
- Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Meat: Traditionally, shepherd’s pie is made with lamb, but you can use ground beef if you prefer. Ground turkey is also a lighter alternative.
- Vegetables: Feel free to use your favorite vegetables in the filling—diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans are great additions.
- Mashed Potatoes: Make sure the mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy before spreading them over the filling. Adding a bit of extra butter or milk will make them easier to spread.
Variations
- Cheesy Shepherd’s Pie: Stir 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy twist.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based ground meat and substitute vegetable broth for beef broth. Use dairy-free butter and milk for the mashed potatoes.
- Herb Mashed Potatoes: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the Shepherd’s Pie up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Shepherd’s Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Shepherd’s Pie?
Yes, Shepherd’s Pie can be frozen. Assemble the pie and allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. Can I Use Instant Mashed Potatoes?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you’re short on time. Just make sure they are thick enough to spread over the filling.
Serving Suggestions
- Green Salad: Serve Shepherd’s Pie with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for added nutrition.
- Bread Rolls: Serve with warm bread rolls to soak up the savory gravy.
Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its savory meat and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and always satisfying. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting taste of this classic dish!
