Name: Ground Beef Shepherd's Pie: 7 Comforting Steps to Deliciousness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp rosemary (optional); 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth; 1 1/2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn — fresh or frozen); 2 tsp all-purpose flour; 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream; 1/2 cup sour cream (optional); 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional); Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food recipe that combines creamy mashed potatoes and savory beef filling in one dish. This delightful meal is the perfect way to warm up your evenings, providing both satisfaction and heartiness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for the family or whipping up a meal for friends, this dish delivers a delicious experience that brings everyone together. Let’s dive into how to create this ultimate cozy dish!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Shepherds Pie

This Ground Beef Shepherds Pie is not just any dinner; it’s a culinary hug! Here are a few reasons to love this recipe:

Comforting and hearty, making it perfect for chilly nights.
Easy shepherd’s pie with ground beef that can be made in under an hour.
Uses simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Great for meal prep, perfect for busy weeknights.
Your family will love the creamy mashed potatoes on top.

This dish is a classic ground beef shepherd’s pie that captures the essence of Irish cuisine, making it a beloved choice for dinner.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Shepherds Pie

Gather these items:

1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp rosemary (optional)
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth
1 1/2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn — fresh or frozen)
2 tsp all-purpose flour
2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Ground Beef Shepherds Pie Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil cubed potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, and sour cream. Season and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet. Sauté chopped onion for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Season with thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes. Add flour and cook another minute.
Step 5: Pour in beef broth and stir in vegetables. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the beef filling. Seal the edges. Top with shredded cheddar if desired.
Step 7: Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden crust.
Step 8: Let rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Shepherds Pie

Keep these in mind:

Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time.
Feel free to adjust vegetables based on your preference.
This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Adding cheese on top gives a creamy finish for your beef shepherd’s pie recipe.
A sprinkle of paprika can enhance flavor and color.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Shepherds Pie

Here are some ideas on how to enjoy this dish:

Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Try it with a glass of red wine for an elevated dinner experience.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Shepherds Pie

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you have comfort food ready whenever you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Shepherds Pie

What’s the secret to perfect Ground Beef Shepherds Pie?

The secret lies in using quality ground beef and ensuring your mashed potatoes are creamy and well-seasoned. This enhances the flavor of your shepherd’s pie with ground beef.

Can I make Ground Beef Shepherds Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and mash the potatoes ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when ready for a comforting dinner.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ground Beef Shepherds Pie?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to drain excess fat from the beef and avoid overcooking the mashed potatoes, ensuring they stay fluffy.

Variations of Ground Beef Shepherds Pie You Can Try

There are many ways to customize your dish:

Use ground turkey for a lighter option, creating a ground beef cottage pie.
Add different vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Top with a layer of cheesy mashed potatoes for a delicious twist.

Enjoy making this homemade ground beef shepherd’s pie recipe and explore the comforting flavors of this classic dish!

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Tuscan Scallops or Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. You can also learn about Baked Chocolate Eclair Cake for a delightful dessert option!