Shepherd's Pie with Ground Beef
A rich, savory ground beef and vegetable filling is simmered in a hearty gravy, then topped with a fluffy blanket of creamy mashed potatoes. This classic comfort food, technically a 'Cottage Pie', is baked until golden brown and bubbly, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
For 6 servings
5 steps. 60 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping
- b.Place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot. Add 1 tsp of salt and cover with cold water by at least an inch.
- c.Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork.
- d.Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander and return them to the hot, empty pot. Let them sit for 1-2 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
- e.Mash the potatoes until smooth. Add 3 tablespoons of butter, the warmed milk, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Stir vigorously until the potatoes are creamy and fluffy. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Beef Filling
- b.While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- d.Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned all over. Drain off any excess grease.
- e.Add the chopped onion and diced carrots to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
- f.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Create the Gravy
- b.Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- c.Stir in the tomato paste until well combined. Gradually pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to avoid lumps.
- d.Add the dried thyme, the remaining 0.5 tsp salt, and the remaining 0.25 tsp black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- e.Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it gently simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened.
- f.Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the frozen peas.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Bake
- b.If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the beef filling to a 2-quart (or 9x9 inch) baking dish and spread it evenly.
- c.Carefully spoon the mashed potato topping over the filling. Gently spread it to the edges of the dish to create a seal.
- d.Use the tines of a fork to create decorative ridges or swirls on the potato surface. These will brown nicely in the oven.
- e.Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and brush it evenly over the potato topping.
- f.Place the dish on a baking sheet (to catch any potential drips) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the potato topping is golden brown.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Carefully remove the pie from the oven. Let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer flavor, deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup of red wine after cooking the vegetables and before adding the flour. Let it cook down for a minute.
- 2Ensure your mashed potatoes are thick and not too wet. Drier potatoes create a better crust and seal for the pie.
- 3Letting the pie rest after baking is essential. It allows the gravy to thicken and set, preventing a runny filling when served.
- 4For an extra savory and cheesy topping, mix 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan cheese into the mashed potatoes.
- 5This dish is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the pie completely (but don't bake), let it cool, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Traditional Shepherd's Pie
For the authentic version, replace the ground beef with 1.5 lbs of ground lamb. The cooking process remains the same.
Sweet Potato ToppingSweet Potato Topping
Substitute the russet potatoes with 2.5 lbs of sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, colorful twist. Mash with butter, a pinch of cinnamon, and salt.
Vegetable LoadedVegetable-Loaded
Add more vegetables to the filling, such as 1 cup of diced mushrooms, corn, or diced celery. Sauté them along with the onions and carrots.
Vegetarian Lentil PieVegetarian Lentil Pie
Replace the ground beef with 2 cups of cooked brown or green lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a hearty vegetarian version.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
The ground beef provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Source of Iron
Beef is an excellent source of heme iron, a type of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for preventing anemia and maintaining energy levels.
Provides Essential Vitamins
The carrots, onions, and peas in the filling contribute essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A (from carrots) for vision and immune health, and fiber for digestive wellness.
Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates
The potato topping is a great source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy to fuel your body and brain.
Frequently asked questions
Traditionally, Shepherd's Pie is made with ground lamb (as shepherds herd sheep), while Cottage Pie is made with ground beef. Since this recipe uses beef, it is technically a Cottage Pie, a term originating from 18th century Britain when potatoes became an affordable food for the poor living in cottages.