Shepherd’s Pie with beef is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you’re craving something warm and filling. This classic British dish combines savory, flavorful ground beef with a rich, savory gravy and is topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes. Baked until golden and bubbling, this pie is the epitome of comfort food. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone around the table.
The beauty of Shepherd’s Pie lies in its simplicity. Ground beef is simmered with vegetables and a flavorful gravy, then topped with mashed potatoes that provide a creamy and satisfying contrast to the meat filling. It’s an all-in-one meal that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this Shepherd’s Pie is sure to be a hit!
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Shepherd’s Pie with Beef: A Comforting Classic
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A hearty and comforting Shepherd’s Pie made with tender beef, vegetables, and topped with a creamy mashed potato crust.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the mashed potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- For the mashed potatoes: In a large pot, boil the diced potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add the butter and milk to the potatoes, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- For the filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute to make a roux.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), and stir in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are tender. Stir in the peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized oven-safe dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, smoothing with a spatula to cover the filling completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispness.
- Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute the beef with lamb for a more traditional Shepherd’s Pie.
- If you don’t have red wine, you can skip it or replace it with additional beef broth.
- For extra flavor, top the mashed potatoes with grated cheese before baking.
- Make sure to season the mashed potatoes well to balance the flavors of the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
The main ingredient, ground beef, provides the savory, meaty base for the Shepherd’s Pie. I prefer using lean ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and texture. You can also use ground lamb for a traditional take on Shepherd’s Pie, though ground beef is more common in this version.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used to cook the beef and vegetables, providing a healthy fat to enhance the flavor. You can substitute it with vegetable oil if preferred.
Onion
Onion adds a savory depth to the filling. It’s sautéed until soft and fragrant, creating the perfect base for the meat and vegetables.
Carrots
Carrots provide sweetness and texture to the filling. They’re diced and cooked until tender, blending perfectly with the other ingredients.
Frozen peas
Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness, complementing the savory beef and vegetables. They also provide a nice contrast in texture.
Garlic
Garlic is sautéed with the onions to infuse the dish with flavor. It adds a subtle aromatic depth that enhances the other ingredients.
Beef broth
Beef broth is used to create the rich gravy that binds the meat and vegetables together. You can use homemade or store-bought broth depending on your preference.
Worcestershire sauce
A splash of Worcestershire sauce deepens the savory flavor of the filling. It adds a bit of umami and complexity to the dish.
Tomato paste
Tomato paste adds richness and depth to the filling, giving it a slightly tangy flavor that balances the savory elements.
Salt and pepper
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the filling. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste.
Mashed potatoes
The topping for Shepherd’s Pie is made of creamy mashed potatoes. Butter, cream, and milk are added to create a smooth, rich texture. Use russet potatoes for the best mashed potato consistency, as they’re starchy and fluffy.
Cheddar cheese (optional)
For an extra layer of flavor, you can top the mashed potatoes with cheddar cheese, which will melt beautifully as the pie bakes.
Directions
- Prepare the mashed potatoes:
Start by making the mashed potatoes. Peel and chop the potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, milk, and cream until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside. - Cook the beef filling:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. - Add the vegetables:
Add the onion, carrots, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. - Make the gravy:
Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together. Add the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper. - Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the beef filling to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading them to cover the entire surface. Use a spatula to smooth the potatoes, or create peaks with a fork for extra texture. - Bake:
If you’d like, sprinkle the top with cheddar cheese for added flavor. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. - Serve:
Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 6 people. Preparation time is around 20 minutes, while cooking takes approximately 40 minutes. The total time is around 1 hour, including baking.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Variations and Customizations
This Shepherd’s Pie with Beef is a versatile dish, and you can make several changes to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Add Other Vegetables
Feel free to mix up the vegetables in the filling. You can add corn, green beans, or even mushrooms for added flavor and texture. You can also use sweet potatoes for a different flavor in the mashed topping.
Make It Gluten-Free
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour to thicken the gravy, or omit the flour altogether and let the beef broth simmer longer to reduce naturally. Ensure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
Vegan Version
To make a vegan version, swap the ground beef for lentils or a vegan meat substitute. Use vegan butter and plant-based milk in the mashed potatoes, and skip the cheddar cheese topping or use a dairy-free version.
Spicy Shepherd’s Pie
If you like some heat, add chopped chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy kick. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
Use Different Meats
Although traditional Shepherd’s Pie uses ground lamb, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer a different type of meat.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Make Ahead
You can assemble the Shepherd’s Pie in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and bake it when needed. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Use Leftover Roast Beef
If you have leftover roast beef, you can easily substitute it for ground beef. Just chop it up and sauté it with the vegetables before adding the broth and seasonings.
Don’t Skip the Cheese
Although not traditional, adding cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes creates a wonderfully golden and cheesy crust that elevates the dish. It’s a great touch for cheese lovers!
FAQs
Can I use ground lamb instead of beef?
Yes, traditionally, Shepherd’s Pie is made with ground lamb, but ground beef is commonly used as a substitute. You can use either.
Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?
Yes, Shepherd’s Pie freezes well. Simply assemble it, allow it to cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat by baking in the oven.
Can I use sweet potatoes for the topping?
Yes, sweet potatoes make a great substitute for regular potatoes. Simply boil and mash them with butter and seasonings for a slightly sweeter twist.
How do I prevent the mashed potatoes from being runny?
Ensure your potatoes are well-drained after boiling, and mash them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Adding butter and cream helps with the texture.
Can I make Shepherd’s Pie in individual portions?
Yes, you can make individual servings by dividing the filling and mashed potatoes into small ramekins or baking dishes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Shepherd’s Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I add cheese to the filling?
Yes, adding cheese such as cheddar or parmesan to the beef filling can add a creamy, rich flavor.
Can I use a different type of broth?
You can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth or chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the Shepherd’s Pie is done?
The Shepherd’s Pie is done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Can I use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes?
Yes, mashed cauliflower can be used as a low-carb alternative to potatoes, giving a similar texture with fewer calories.
Conclusion
This Shepherd’s Pie with Beef is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a savory filling and a creamy mashed potato topping, it’s a classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying it as leftovers, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.
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