Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes
Hearty, cozy, and packed with homestyle flavor this Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef and Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food classic! Savory seasoned ground beef and tender vegetables are simmered in a rich gravy, then topped with a layer of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 3–4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup milk (or cream for richer flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Boil chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the Beef Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until translucent. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, peas, and carrots. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Pie: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the beef filling evenly in a 9x9-inch baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes over the top and smooth with a spatula. Optionally, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake in preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the mashed potatoes are golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Serve: Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.