Description
This shepherd’s pie is a comforting, family-friendly dinner made with a savory ground beef filling, mixed vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. It’s baked until golden and bubbling, making it a reliable choice for weeknight meals or make-ahead dinners.
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 large onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 pounds ground beef or lamb
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2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
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1 cup beef broth
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping
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4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
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1/2 cup milk
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1/4 cup butter
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent.
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Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the ground beef or lamb, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
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Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes.
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Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Transfer the meat filling to a baking dish and spread evenly.
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While the filling simmers, place diced potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15 minutes until fork-tender.
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Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk and butter, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
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Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat filling. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if using.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the filling is bubbling.
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Allow the shepherd’s pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
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Let the meat filling thicken before assembling to avoid a watery pie.
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Mash potatoes while hot for the smoothest texture.
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Rest briefly after baking so layers set before serving.
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 10 minutes