Name: Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup carrots and peas mix; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or fresh)

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If ever a dish could be described as a big, cozy hug in casserole form, Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie deserves that honor! This recipe layers savory ground beef, colorful veggies, and a lush blanket of creamy mashed potatoes, then bakes it all to golden, bubbling perfection. Every forkful delivers hearty flavor and nostalgia, making it the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or when you just need to feed hungry mouths with something utterly satisfying. When you want a meal that is both crowd-pleasing and deeply comforting, this classic never disappoints.

Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie is refreshingly simple, and each one plays a starring role in creating the rich flavor and satisfying texture we all crave. From the umami-packed beef to those buttery potatoes, every item is essential for building those crave-worthy layers.

Ground Beef (1 lb): Choose lean or standard; for extra flavor, don’t worry about a bit of fat!
Onion, diced (1 small): Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the meat mixture.
Carrots and Peas Mix (1 cup): A classic duo offering pops of color and gentle sweetness that contrast beautifully with beef.
Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Adds depth and a tiny hint of tang that punches up the savory kick.
Beef Broth (1 cup): Makes the filling luscious and helps all the flavors meld together.
Mashed Potatoes (3 cups): Use leftovers or make a fresh batch—either way, this is the crowning glory of the pie!
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the onion and beef, lending a lovely richness.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for perfectly seasoning every layer to taste.

How to Make Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, get your baking dish ready—an 8×8-inch or similar works great for this amount. This ensures your pie bakes evenly and those delicious layers have room to shine.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Onion

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and ground beef, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Cook together until the beef is browned and the onions have softened, about 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat—this keeps your Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie from becoming greasy while letting all the meaty flavor stay front and center.

Step 3: Add Veggies and Tomato Paste

Next, stir in the tomato paste, carrots, and peas. Mix until every bit of beef is coated in that zesty, tomato-rich base, then pour in the beef broth. Let it all simmer together for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the veggies become just tender. This quick simmer melds the flavors and creates a hearty filling worthy of the name Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour your luscious beef and veggie mixture into the baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Now for the best part—spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing them out with a spatula. Go right to the edges and swirl the top if you feel fancy; the uneven surface will get extra crispy in the oven!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Pop your creation into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes turn irresistibly golden and you see the edges bubbling up. This step crisps the top just enough and finishes tying all the flavors together. Let it cool just long enough so you don’t burn your tongue, then dig in!

How to Serve Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle your Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie with a shower of chopped fresh parsley, or a dusting of paprika for color and a little extra flavor. If you have chives on hand, their gentle onion zing is a dream with buttery potatoes. These simple garnishes make the dish pop visually and add a bit of freshness to every cozy bite.

Side Dishes

This hearty pie can absolutely be a stand-alone star, but if you’re setting a full table, consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in light vinaigrette, or simple steamed green beans for balance. A warm, crusty roll or slice of rustic bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of that savory filling—it’s a comfort food match made in heaven!

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to have fun with your Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie presentation! Try portioning the filling and mashed potatoes into ramekins for adorable, individual servings, especially for dinner parties or meal prepping. Or, make mini pies in a muffin tin for a grab-and-go option that’s as cute as it is delicious. Either way, your table is sure to get some “oohs” and “aahs!”

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie keeps beautifully! Simply cover the cooled dish with foil or transfer servings into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers hold together nicely, and the flavors only get better as they mingle in the fridge.

Freezing

If you want to get a head start on busy weeks, Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie freezes like a dream. Assemble the entire dish, let it cool, and wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake until bubbling and golden again.

Reheating

When it’s time to reheat, you can warm large amounts covered in a 350°F oven until hot throughout (about 20 minutes), or zap individual portions in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or extra sprinkle of cheese if you like, to keep things extra moist and flavorful.

FAQs

What’s the difference between Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie?

Traditionally, Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, while Cottage Pie uses beef. However, in many places, the term is used interchangeably, especially when describing classic comfort food like Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie.

Can I use homemade mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! If you have leftover homemade mashed potatoes, this is the perfect way to use them. The richer and creamier, the better the pie, but store-bought or instant work fine for busy nights.

Can I add cheese to the topping?

Definitely! A sprinkle of sharp cheddar over the mashed potatoes before baking turns Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie into an irresistible, cheesy delight with the perfect golden crust.

Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to toss in corn, green beans, or even chopped bell pepper. The beauty of this dish is how flexible it is—use whatever veggies you have on hand.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie is naturally gluten-free if your beef broth and other ingredients don’t contain added gluten. Always double-check labels, and you’ll have a safe, hearty meal ready for anyone around your table.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about digging into a warm, homemade Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie. It’s cozy, simple, and always delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or simply treating yourself, give this recipe a go and see why it’s a time-tested favorite!