Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. This easy casserole version layers savory ground beef and vegetables beneath creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty, delicious meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 3 large potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain any excess fat.
3. Step 3: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Step 5: Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Step 6: Transfer the beef mixture to a casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Step 7: Top the beef mixture with the prepared mashed potatoes, spreading to cover it completely.
8. Step 8: Dot the mashed potatoes with butter and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if you choose to use it.
9. Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Step 10: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use homemade mashed potatoes with cream and butter instead of instant varieties.
• Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture for extra aroma.
• Swap ground beef for ground lamb for a more traditional shepherd’s pie taste.
• Use a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella or Parmesan for a different cheesy topping.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the topping crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make shepherd’s pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps develop flavors and makes dinner preparation easier.

Can I freeze shepherd’s pie?

Absolutely. Freeze the assembled casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 118 reviews

This Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish featuring a savory ground beef and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, this classic casserole combines rich flavors and simple ingredients for a satisfying meal.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

Sauce and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 3 large potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
2. Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened, bringing out their sweetness and flavor.
4. Add Vegetables and Sauce: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Simmer Mixture: Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly, enhancing the flavors and ensuring the filling is juicy but not runny.
6. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to form the base layer of the shepherd’s pie.
7. Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture, making sure to cover the filling completely for a perfect topping layer.
8. Add Butter and Cheese: Dot the top of the mashed potatoes with butter and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the surface if using, to create a rich, golden crust while baking.
9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling, signaling it’s fully cooked and hot throughout.
10. Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving so it sets slightly and is easier to portion and enjoy.

Notes

• You can substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a more traditional shepherd’s pie flavor.
• Using freshly made mashed potatoes enhances the taste, but instant mashed potatoes can be used for convenience.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
• If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Shepherd’s pie, casserole, ground beef, mashed potatoes, comfort food, easy dinner, baked casserole