Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish featuring a rich, seasoned meat filling with mixed vegetables, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. This traditional recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner, bringing together savory flavors and creamy textures in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food – A warm, filling, and satisfying meal.
• Simple & Wholesome Ingredients – Made with pantry staples.
• Customizable – Use beef or lamb, add different veggies, or make it cheesy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Freezes and reheats well.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish – A family favorite that everyone loves.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup diced carrots
• ½ cup corn
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 3 large potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• ¼ cup butter
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add peeled and cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
3. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

2. Make the Meat Filling

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft (about 3 minutes).
3. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add peas, carrots, and corn, cooking for another 2 minutes.

3. Assemble & Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread the meat filling evenly in a baking dish.
3. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat and spread evenly.
4. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown.

4. Serve & Enjoy

Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Shepherd’s Pie: Mix cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
• Loaded Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans for more texture.
• Sweet Potato Topping: Swap regular potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
• Lighter Version: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef/lamb.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the dish and freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes or microwave individual servings.

FAQs

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

Shepherd’s Pie is traditionally made with lamb, while Cottage Pie uses beef.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pie, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Fresh mashed potatoes are best, but instant mashed potatoes can be a quick alternative.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter and a dairy-free milk alternative for the mashed potatoes.

What can I serve with Shepherd’s Pie?

It pairs well with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

How do I prevent a runny Shepherd’s Pie?

Let the filling simmer until thickened and drain excess liquid before assembling.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes! Simply dice fresh carrots, peas, and corn and cook them longer in the filling.

What size baking dish should I use?

An 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch dish works well for this recipe.

Can I make mini Shepherd’s Pies?

Yes! Use individual ramekins and bake for 20 minutes instead.

What can I do with leftovers?

Use leftovers as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or reheat as a quick meal.

Conclusion

This Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a savory meat filling, creamy mashed potatoes, and optional cheesy topping, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Try this easy, hearty recipe today and enjoy a timeless favorite!