Save A comforting, affordable classic featuring savory ground beef and vegetables, topped with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes and baked until golden.
This shepherds pie recipe was my go-to during busy midweek evenings when everyone wanted something hearty yet easy. The joy on my kids faces when that golden cheesy topping comes out of the oven is still one of my favorite kitchen moments.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (or turkey/lamb): 500 g (1 lb), savory protein base
- Medium onion: 1, finely chopped
- Medium carrots: 2, diced
- Frozen peas: 1 cup, add sweetness and color
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced for flavor
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp, umami boost
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Dried rosemary: 1 tsp
- Beef or vegetable broth: 250 ml (1 cup)
- All-purpose flour (or cornstarch): 2 tbsp, for thickening
- 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
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 100 g (1 cup)
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Boil Potatoes:
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash Potatoes:
- Mash boiled potatoes with butter, milk, half the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until creamy. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Cook Meat:
- Add garlic and ground beef. Cook, breaking up meat, until browned and cooked through.
- Add Flavor:
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Thicken Filling:
- Sprinkle flour over mixture, stir in, and cook for another minute.
- Simmer:
- Pour in broth and bring to simmer. Add peas. Cook 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Assemble Pie:
- Transfer beef mixture to a baking dish (around 20x20 cm/8x8 inch). Spread evenly.
- Top with Potatoes:
- Spoon mashed potatoes over filling, smooth top, and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes till top is golden and filling is bubbling.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let cool for few minutes before serving.
Save Sharing this dish around the table always sparks stories and laughter. It brings out that unmistakable warmth only comfort food can deliver.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh green salad or some steamed greens for a balanced meal that stretches the family budget.
Variations
Swap the beef for lamb, turkey, or plant-based mince. Mix up the cheese, or add corn and other veggies to use up leftovers.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat portions in the oven so the cheesy topping stays deliciously crisp.
Save Budget shepherds pie is the ultimate comfort meal that makes everyone smile. Simple, satisfying, and always a hit.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free to avoid gluten in the dish.
- → What types of cheese work best for the topping?
Sharp cheddar provides a strong flavor and melts well, but you can try a mix like mozzarella or Gruyère for different tastes and textures.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef for other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey, lamb, or plant-based mince can be used to vary the flavor and accommodate dietary preferences.
- → How do I ensure the mashed potatoes are creamy?
Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, and cheese while still warm to create a smooth and creamy topping.
- → What sides complement this hearty dish?
A fresh green salad or steamed greens balance the richness, adding a refreshing contrast to the filling and potatoes.