why make this recipe
Easy Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth to any meal. It combines ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying and filling dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple to make and uses ingredients you can find in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to feed your family or friends, and everyone will love the flavors.
how to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 tsp rosemary (fresh or dried)
Directions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become lovely and translucent—about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, add in the ground beef, cooking it until it’s browned. Then mix in the diced carrots and frozen peas. Let it all cook together for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the thyme and rosemary. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, until it thickens up just a bit.
- While that’s simmering, prepare the mashed potatoes. If you’re using homemade ones, just mix in some butter and milk until they’re perfectly smooth.
- In a baking dish, layer the meat mixture evenly on the bottom, then lovingly dollop the mashed potatoes on top. Use a fork to create some texture—those little peaks and valleys will get so crispy!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and pop the dish in for 25-30 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden brown. Serve it hot, and watch everyone gather around the table for seconds! Enjoy every delicious bite!
how to serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie
Easy Shepherd’s Pie is best served hot right from the oven. You can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. This dish is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, but a dollop of ketchup or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can add a nice touch.
how to store Easy Shepherd’s Pie
If you have leftovers, let the Shepherd’s Pie cool completely before storing it. You can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to use an airtight container.
tips to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie
- To save time, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes, or prepare them in advance.
- Adding more vegetables, such as corn or green beans, can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding some chili flakes or pepper to the meat mixture.
variation
You can easily turn this Shepherd’s Pie into a vegetarian version by replacing the ground beef with lentils or sautéed mushrooms. You can also use sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a different taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and mashed potatoes a day in advance. Keep them separate until you’re ready to layer and bake.
2. Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground lamb is traditional, but you can also use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
3. What can I serve with Shepherd’s Pie?
Shepherd’s Pie is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some bread for additional variety.