Name: Ground Beef Shepherd's Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: British-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3/4 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 4 cups mashed potatoes; 3 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Comfort food doesn’t get more classic or satisfying than Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie. With its hearty base of savory ground beef and tender vegetables, crowned with fluffy mashed potatoes that bake into golden perfection, this dish is a weeknight savior and a nostalgic treat all in one.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping a cozy dinner for two with plenty of leftovers, this shepherd’s pie hits all the right notes. It’s budget-friendly, simple to make, and endlessly adaptable to whatever you have on hand. One spoonful of its creamy top and meaty center is enough to bring everyone running to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

This recipe is a celebration of home cooking at its best. It takes inexpensive, easy-to-find ingredients and transforms them into a warm, bubbling bake that everyone looks forward to. The layers come together in perfect harmony, with the savory beef, soft vegetables, and buttery mashed potatoes creating comfort in every bite.

You can also make it ahead of time, freeze it, or reheat it throughout the week, making it a lifesaver on busy days. Plus, kids love it, and picky eaters rarely complain when there’s creamy mashed potato involved.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for the Topping?

For that fluffy, buttery top, you’ll want starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They mash easily, absorb flavor well, and create that pillowy texture that makes this pie so irresistible. If you want an even creamier texture, mix in a touch of cream cheese or sour cream.

Ingredients for the Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry and fridge staples, you can create something incredibly hearty and wholesome.

Ground beef: This forms the protein-rich base and provides a deep, savory flavor.
Yellow onion: Essential for building a flavorful foundation as it sautés with the beef.
Garlic: Adds a punch of aroma and taste that brings the filling to life.
Carrots: Bring a touch of sweetness and soft texture after cooking.
Frozen peas: Classic for shepherd’s pie and a great way to sneak in veggies.
Tomato paste: Gives a subtle depth and richness to the meat mixture.
Beef broth: Helps create a moist and savory filling.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and that craveable savory finish.
Mashed potatoes: The crowning glory. Creamy, buttery, and golden when baked.
Butter and milk: For smooth, rich mashed potatoes that spread easily on top.
Salt and pepper: To bring out all the flavors and balance each layer.

How To Make the Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by cooking the chopped onion in a bit of oil until it’s soft and fragrant. Add in the minced garlic and let it cook just a minute more, until golden.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pan and break it up as it cooks. Stir and brown until no pink remains, then drain off any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Flavor

Stir in diced carrots and let them soften slightly. Mix in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and pour in the beef broth. Let the mixture simmer until slightly thickened. Add in the frozen peas last so they stay bright and sweet.

Step 4: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the meat simmers, make your mashed potatoes. Boil peeled and chopped potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Spread the beef and veggie mixture in an even layer in a baking dish. Carefully spoon the mashed potatoes on top and spread them out. For a nice finish, use a fork to create ridges on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.

How to Serve and Store Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

This shepherd’s pie is best served hot from the oven, when the top is golden and slightly crisp, and the filling is warm and savory. It makes a complete meal on its own but can be paired with a crisp salad or a crusty roll for something extra. This recipe feeds about 6 people generously.

To store leftovers, let the pie cool completely and then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months—perfect for those nights when cooking just isn’t on the agenda.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie?

Garlic Roasted Broccoli

A simple side that brings crunch and brightness to balance the richness of the pie.

Buttered Green Beans

Quick to make and lightly seasoned, they add freshness and color to the plate.

Caesar Salad

Creamy dressing and crisp romaine provide contrast in both texture and flavor.

Apple Cider Vinegar Slaw

A tangy, crunchy option that cuts through the comfort-food creaminess.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tender carrots pair well with the savory notes of shepherd’s pie.

Irish Soda Bread

Rustic and hearty, it complements the dish while soaking up any extra sauce.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

With their caramelized edges, they’re a great veggie companion.

Creamed Spinach

Another creamy side that doesn’t compete with the main dish but adds a luxe touch.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie, you’ll want to try these other cozy recipes from Janet Dishes:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a quick, creamy vegetarian option.
Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl when you’re craving something savory with herbs.
No Peek Chicken Casserole for a true dump-and-bake classic.
Creamy Smothered Chicken if you want ultra-rich and filling.
Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese because there’s no such thing as too much comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

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Let me know how your shepherd’s pie turned out! Did you make the mashed potato topping with cream cheese or stick to butter and milk? Maybe you added cheddar or a dash of paprika? I’d love to hear your twist on this family favorite.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and classic comfort food on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to dish.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie is everything a comforting dinner should be. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of rich, hearty flavor. With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of the day. Whether you’re making it ahead, freezing for later, or diving in fresh from the oven, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.