Save A comforting, affordable classic featuring savory ground beef and vegetables, topped with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes and baked until golden.
I first learned to make shepherds pie when searching for hearty, filling meals that could be easily customized. Over time, this recipe became my go-to for cozy family dinners and leftover-friendly nights.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 500 g (1 lb) (or ground turkey/lamb for variation)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Frozen peas: 1 cup
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Dried rosemary: 1 tsp
- Beef or vegetable broth: 250 ml (1 cup)
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Potatoes: 800 g (about 1¾ lbs), peeled and chopped
- Milk: 60 ml (¼ cup)
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Cheddar cheese: 100 g (1 cup) shredded
- Salt and black pepper: to taste (for topping)
Instructions
- Prep and cook potatoes:
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash potatoes:
- Mash with butter, milk, half the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare filling:
- Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Cook onion and carrots for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add protein and aromatics:
- Add garlic and ground beef. Cook, breaking up meat, until browned and cooked through.
- Season and thicken:
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle flour over and stir in, cooking for another minute.
- Add broth and peas:
- Pour in broth, bring to simmer. Add peas, cooking 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Layer in dish:
- Transfer beef mixture to baking dish (about 20x20 cm/8x8 inch) and smooth flat.
- Add topping and cheese:
- Spoon mashed potatoes on top, smooth, and sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake 20–25 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until top is golden and filling is bubbling.
- Rest:
- Let cool a few minutes before serving.
Save This shepherds pie is a staple for busy weeknights and family get-togethers. My kids love helping with the cheesy potato topping and everyone enjoys the crispy golden crust.
Substitutions & Variations
Swap in lentils or plant-based mince for a vegetarian version. Try a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor or add extra veggies like frozen corn for more nutrition.
Allergen Information
This dish contains dairy and wheat. For gluten-free, use cornstarch and a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. For dairy-free, substitute with non-dairy butter, milk, and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This shepherds pie pairs perfectly with simple green salad or steamed greens for a balanced meal. Leftovers taste great reheated for lunch the next day.
Save Enjoy this comforting pie fresh from the oven and savor the cheesy topping with every bite.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or lamb can be used for a flavorful variation while maintaining the dish's texture and richness.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch and ensure the Worcestershire sauce used is certified gluten-free.
- → What are good alternatives for the cheesy mashed topping?
Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère, or use dairy-free butter and milk substitutes for a dairy-free option.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Yes, frozen corn or leftover veggies such as peas or green beans can be added to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.
- → What tools are recommended for preparation?
A large pot for boiling potatoes, a skillet for cooking the filling, a baking dish for assembling, a potato masher, and a wooden spoon are helpful.
- → How do I ensure the mashed potato topping is creamy?
Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, and cheese while still warm to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.