Best Classic Shepherd's Pie Recipe

A Hearty, Comforting Dish with Ground Beef, Vegetables, and Mashed Potatoes!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Recipe Category: Main Dish
Recipe Cuisine: Irish
Aggregate Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9/5 from 220 reviews)

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This Best Classic Shepherd's Pie recipe is the ultimate comfort food. A savory layer of ground beef, vegetables, and a rich gravy is topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. It's a one-dish wonder that's perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping.

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Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot. Mash the potatoes with milk, butter, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 4: Add the Flavor
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading them out evenly with a spatula. Use the back of a spoon to make a decorative swirl pattern on top of the mashed potatoes.

Step 6: Bake
Bake the shepherd's pie in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. If you like an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the shepherd’s pie cool for 5 minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal!

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Pro Tips

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, parsnips, or green beans, to the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the shepherd’s pie the night before and refrigerate. Bake it when you're ready to serve!
• Ground Lamb Option: For a traditional shepherd’s pie, substitute ground lamb for the beef. Ground beef is typically used for cottage pie.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 6g

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FAQs

Can I freeze shepherd's pie?
Yes, shepherd's pie freezes beautifully! After baking, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While fresh mashed potatoes are preferred for texture, instant mashed potatoes will work in a pinch. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package.

Can I make shepherd's pie in individual servings?
Absolutely! You can make individual shepherd's pies by dividing the filling and mashed potatoes into small ramekins and baking as directed.

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Keywords

classic shepherd's pie, comfort food recipe, beef shepherd’s pie, easy shepherd’s pie, Irish shepherd’s pie, family dinner recipes, mashed potato pie

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Google Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This is hands-down the best shepherd's pie recipe! The flavors are amazing, and the mashed potatoes on top are so creamy!" – Lisa K.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"My whole family loves this recipe! It’s easy to make, and it tastes just like the one my grandmother used to make." – John P.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I made this for dinner last night, and it was a huge hit! I added extra veggies, and it turned out perfect." – Megan W.

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