This version keeps things straightforward: savory meat filling, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all baked until golden. (Note: traditional Shepherd’s Pie uses lamb; beef versions are often called Cottage Pie, but this recipe works beautifully with either.)
Ingredients
Meat Filling
1 lb ground lamb or ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef or chicken broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Mashed Potato Topping
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tbsp butter
⅓ cup milk or cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).
Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
Set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Filling
Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
In a large skillet, cook ground meat over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add onion and garlic; cook 2–3 minutes until soft.
Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, salt, and pepper.
Add broth and simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in frozen vegetables.
3. Assemble the Pie
Spread meat mixture evenly in a baking dish.
Spoon mashed potatoes over the top and spread gently.
Use a fork to create ridges (crispy edges!).
Sprinkle with cheese if using.
4. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes for extra browning.
⭐ Pro Tips for Best Shepherd’s Pie
🥔 Use starchy potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold) for creamy mash
🍖 Lamb = classic flavor; beef = family-friendly
🧂 Taste the filling before baking—seasoning matters
🔥 Fork ridges = crispier topping
Easy Variations
Extra Creamy
Mix sour cream or cream cheese into the mashed potatoes.
Healthier Version
Use ground turkey and add extra vegetables.
One-Pan Shortcut
Make filling in an oven-safe skillet and top directly with potatoes.
Make-Ahead Friendly
Assemble, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days
Freeze up to 2 months
Reheat in oven for best texture
🏁 Final Thoughts
Easy Shepherd’s Pie is pure comfort, made approachable. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for feeding a crowd or cozy family dinners.