Description
Easy Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a savory beef filling, mixed vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. This one-pot meal is easy to prepare and full of hearty flavors, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. With just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 3 large (1 1/2 to 2 pounds) potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, divided
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1 to 2 cups mixed vegetables (diced carrots, corn, or peas)
- 1 1/2 pounds ground round beef
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Pepper and/or other seasonings of choice
Instructions
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Prepare the mashed potatoes: Place quartered potatoes in a pot and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon salt, bring to a boil, and cook for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and return potatoes to the pot. Add 6 tablespoons butter and mash until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then set aside.
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Cook the beef filling: Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
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Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in mixed vegetables, cooking for 5 minutes. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or any additional seasonings.
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Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling and smooth with a spatula. Use a fork to create a decorative pattern on top.
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Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy on its own or with a side salad.
Notes
- Ground lamb: For a traditional version, use ground lamb instead of beef.
- Vegan version: Substitute lentils or plant-based ground meat, use vegetable broth, and swap butter for a vegan alternative.
- Different vegetables: Feel free to add peas, green beans, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes for variety.
- Cheesy topping: Add shredded cheese on top of the mashed potatoes for a cheesy crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
