This Classic Shepherd’s Pie is the definition of comfort food—savory ground meat and vegetables simmered in a flavorful gravy, then blanketed with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings and family gatherings alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shepherd’s pie is beloved for its simplicity and comforting flavors. This version delivers rich, meaty filling with just the right blend of herbs, vegetables, and savory gravy, all topped with buttery mashed potatoes. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and can easily be made ahead or adapted to suit different dietary preferences. Plus, the golden top and bubbling filling make for an irresistible presentation.

Ingredients

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

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground lamb or beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
• 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the mashed potato topping:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
4. Add ground meat, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
5. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and broth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add mixed vegetables and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Transfer meat mixture to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Use a fork to create ridges.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
9. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Cottage Pie: Use ground beef instead of lamb, which is technically called cottage pie.
• Vegetarian version: Replace meat with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth.
• Cheesy topping: Mix shredded cheddar into the mashed potatoes for a rich cheesy crust.
• Sweet potato twist: Use mashed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and nutritious variation.
• Herb upgrade: Add rosemary or parsley to the potato mash for an herbal aroma.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium heat in 1-minute intervals, checking in between. For freezing, assemble the pie without baking and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I make shepherd’s pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can fully assemble it in advance and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze shepherd’s pie?

Absolutely. Wrap the unbaked or baked pie well and freeze. For best results, thaw overnight and bake until hot and golden.

What’s the difference between shepherd’s pie and cottage pie?

Shepherd’s pie is traditionally made with lamb, while cottage pie is made with beef.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh carrots, peas, and corn can be used—just sauté or steam them slightly before adding.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives in the mashed potatoes.

What’s the best potato for mashing?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their fluffy, creamy texture when mashed.

Can I add cheese on top?

Yes, adding grated cheese to the mashed potatoes or directly on top adds extra richness and flavor.

How do I keep the mashed potatoes from sinking into the filling?

Make sure the filling is thick enough and let it cool slightly before adding the mashed potatoes.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Definitely—this recipe is a great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes.

What sides go well with shepherd’s pie?

A crisp green salad or steamed green beans balance the richness of the dish nicely.

Conclusion

Classic Shepherd’s Pie with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal—hearty, flavorful, and timeless. With its savory meat and vegetable base and buttery potato topping, it’s a dish that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping for a week’s worth of meals, this recipe is reliable, satisfying, and always appreciated.

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