Name: Shepherd's Pie with Ground Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste

Golden, buttery mashed potatoes over a rich and savory ground beef filling—this Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef is comfort food at its best. It’s hearty, cozy, and packed with classic flavors that bring warmth to every bite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving a crowd, this casserole-style dish never fails to please. The contrast of crispy potato peaks and juicy beef-veggie layers makes it visually inviting and deeply satisfying.

This version uses ground beef instead of lamb, making it easier to prepare with everyday ingredients while still delivering that traditional comfort. A splash of Worcestershire sauce and a dash of herbs give the beef layer a rich, savory flavor that soaks into every spoonful. Pair it with a light salad or enjoy it as-is—this is a complete, no-fuss meal that’s easy to love.

What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Shepherd’s Pie?

For the creamiest and most flavorful topping, go for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold. These mash beautifully and hold their structure when baked. If you want an ultra-luxurious finish, mix in a bit of butter and sour cream to the mash before topping your beef filling. Don’t forget a little salt and garlic powder—it makes all the difference.

Ingredients for the Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

Ground Beef: The heart of the filling, ground beef adds richness and a satisfying, meaty bite.
Yellow Onion: A classic aromatic that builds the base of flavor in the beef mixture.
Garlic: Adds bold depth and a comforting warmth to the beef layer.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Peas, carrots, corn, and green beans give the dish color and sweetness.
Tomato Paste: A small amount intensifies the savory base and thickens the sauce.
Beef Broth: Keeps the filling juicy and adds a deep umami flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash elevates the entire beef layer with tang and depth.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes crown the dish and bake into a golden, fluffy crust.
Butter and Sour Cream (for the mash): These enrich the potatoes and create a dreamy, velvety topping.
Salt, Pepper, Thyme, Garlic Powder: Simple seasonings that pull everything together and enhance each layer.

How To Make the Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped yellow onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Filling

Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute to deepen the flavor. Then pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and season everything with salt, pepper, thyme, and a dash of garlic powder. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the filling simmers, make your mashed potatoes. Boil peeled and chopped potatoes until fork-tender, then mash with butter, sour cream, salt, and garlic powder until creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spoon the beef mixture evenly into a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing them out with a spatula. For a rustic look, create small peaks with the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake the Shepherd’s Pie for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. For extra browning, broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye on it!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh thyme for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve and Store Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

Shepherd’s Pie is best served fresh from the oven when the mashed potato topping is golden and slightly crisp. Scoop generous portions into bowls or plates and enjoy it on its own or with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad for contrast. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds color and freshness right before serving.

Leftovers are just as comforting! Store any remaining pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick lunch or dinner.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pie in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Traditionally, Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, while Cottage Pie uses ground beef. This version is technically a Cottage Pie, but in many households, the names are used interchangeably.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, if you’re in a pinch! While homemade mashed potatoes offer the best texture and flavor, good-quality instant mash can still make for a delicious and easy shortcut.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply bring it to room temperature and follow the baking instructions.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free, and you’re good to go. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What other vegetables can I add?

You can mix in cooked mushrooms, bell peppers, or even chopped spinach. It’s a great recipe for using up leftover veggies from your fridge.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey or even ground chicken can be used for a lighter twist on this comforting dish.

Want More Comforting Dinner Ideas?

If you love this hearty Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef, here are a few more recipes from the blog that bring warmth to your dinner table:

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is rich, cheesy, and feeds a crowd like a dream.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli offers a cozy one-pot pasta night option.
Easy Weeknight Tater Tot Casserole gives you that crispy topping and creamy center you crave.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet is bold, buttery, and quick to the table.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes slow cooks into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you always have comfort food within reach: Life with Jam Pinterest

Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear about it in the comments! Did you stick with beef or try a different protein? Maybe added cheese on top?

Let’s help each other make dinner time easier and more delicious. Questions, tips, and your own variations are always welcome!

Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A cozy classic, this Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef features a rich and savory beef and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting, hearty dish perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or holiday dinners.

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.

3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then mix in the frozen vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. While the filling simmers, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter, sour cream, garlic powder, and salt until smooth and fluffy.

5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading and fluffing with a spoon for peaks.

6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden. Optionally broil for 2–3 minutes to crisp the peaks.

7. Cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme if desired, and serve warm.