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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://tastewithamy.com/easy-shepherds-pie-casserole-recipe/