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Classic Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef and Vegetables

Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy, comforting dinner made with savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes baked until golden. It’s hearty, simple to prepare, and perfect for a warm family meal on busy evenings
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: British
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Beef Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 1 cup peas fresh or frozen
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
Mashed Potato Topping
  • 2 lb potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Baking Dish
  • Potato Masher

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking dish and set it aside.
  2. Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.
  4. Stir in the diced carrots and cook for another 3 minutes so they begin to soften.
  5. Add the tomato paste and pour in the beef broth. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Stir in the peas and season with salt and pepper. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  7. Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain well, then mash with the butter and milk until smooth and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  9. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling and gently spread them with the back of a spoon to cover the surface evenly.
  10. Bake for 25 minutes until the potatoes are lightly golden. Let the shepherd’s pie rest for a few minutes before serving so the filling settles nicely.

Notes

Frozen mixed vegetables work well and save time on busy evenings. You can also sprinkle a little shredded cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking for an extra cozy finish. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze the unbaked assembled pie for up to 2 months.