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Shepherd’s Pie Recipe Easy Comfort Food with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

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This easy Shepherd’s Pie features a savory beef and vegetable filling topped with fluffy, cheesy mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or lamb for traditional, or a blend)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil)
  • 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Place peeled, chunked potatoes in a medium saucepan. Cover with cold water and add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  2. While potatoes cook, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add ground beef (or lamb), breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add diced onion and carrots to the skillet. Sauté 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the meat and veggies, stirring well. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in beef broth. Simmer 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until thickened. Mix in peas and cook 2 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Drain cooked potatoes and return to saucepan. Add butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Spoon meat filling into a baking dish, spreading evenly. Dollop mashed potatoes over the top and gently spread to cover. Use a fork to make ridges for crispiness. Sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.
  7. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place baking dish on a rimmed sheet. Bake 25-30 minutes, until potatoes are golden and cheese is bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra browning if desired.
  8. Let pie rest 10 minutes before serving. Scoop into bowls and enjoy.

Notes

For gluten-free, use a certified blend for flour and check Worcestershire sauce. For vegetarian, substitute lentils or plant-based meat and veggie broth. Let pie rest before serving for best texture. Use freshly shredded cheese for optimal melt. Filling can be prepped a day ahead. Leftovers keep well and flavor deepens overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: shepherd's pie, comfort food, cheesy mashed potatoes, beef casserole, easy dinner, family meal, potluck, classic recipe

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