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This Shepherd's Pie recipe features a savory ground beef filling with peas, carrots, and onions, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to perfection.

Shepherd's Pie Recipe

This Shepherd's Pie recipe features a savory ground beef filling with peas, carrots, and onions, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to perfection. A comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Mashed Potatoes:
  • 4 medium potatoes peeled and diced
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
For the Meat Filling:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 cup carrots diced
  • 1 cup peas frozen or fresh
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp flour for thickening
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Pot (for boiling potatoes)
  • Potato masher or electric mixer
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
  2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
  3. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Make the Meat Filling
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and diced carrots, cooking for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
  5. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  7. Add the peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Shepherd's Pie
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the beef mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly to form the bottom layer.
  3. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the beef, spreading them evenly with a spatula.
  4. Use the back of a spoon to create a smooth, even surface and slightly fluff the top of the potatoes.
Bake and Serve
  1. Bake the Shepherd's Pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
  • Safety: Ensure that the beef reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).