Go Back
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. This dish, with its layers of savory filling and creamy mashed potatoes, embodies the essence of homemade meals that provide not just nourishment, but also a sense of belonging and warmth.

Comforting Shepherd’s Pie Bake

This cozy Shepherd's Pie Bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a heartwarming family gathering. With layers of savory ground meat and fresh vegetables, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing. Whip it up in just about an hour, and you'll create a nourishing meal that warms the soul. Save this recipe for later and enjoy the joy of cooking a classic favorite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Filling:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

1 cup frozen peas

1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cubed

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 cup milk (or cream for added richness)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

Chopped parsley (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for the pie.

    Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, fill with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then carefully add the cubed potatoes. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Once done, drain the water and return the pot to the stove.

      Mash the Potatoes: To the warm potatoes, add the butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mash the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. If you'd like to enrich the flavor, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the potatoes. Set this aside momentarily.

        Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, and the garlic is aromatic.

          Brown the Meat: Turn the heat up to medium-high. Introduce the ground beef or lamb, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. If there is excess fat, feel free to drain it off to keep the filling lighter.

            Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced carrots, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary into the meat mixture. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes to develop the flavors. Pour in the beef broth, then stir in the frozen peas and corn. Season with salt and pepper, and allow the mixture to simmer for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

              Assemble the Pie: In an appropriately sized baking dish (around 9x13 inches), spread the beef and vegetable filling evenly across the base. Carefully dollop the creamy mashed potatoes over the filling. Use a spatula to spread them out evenly, and then create decorative peaks and swirls with a fork for an appetizing presentation.

                Bake: Transfer the dish to your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and you can see the filling bubbling around the edges.

                  Serve: Once baked, remove the Shepherd's Pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch and added color.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 1 hr | 6 servings