There’s nothing quite like a shepherd’s pie to warm you up on a chilly evening. Picture this: You’re cozy at home, and the aroma of savory beef filling and the comforting scent of mashed potatoes wafts through your kitchen. It feels like a hug in a dish! This Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. It’s hearty, delicious, and oh-so-simple to make. Plus, it’s the ultimate meal for sharing with family and friends.

why make this recipe

Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food that brings back memories of home-cooked meals. This version is easy to whip up and a great way to use ground beef and leftover mashed potatoes. It layers flavorful beef and veggies under a creamy topping, creating a delightful medley of tastes in every bite. You’ll love how it satisfies your cravings while being easy on the budget. With minimal cleanup, you can spend more time relaxing and enjoying your meal.

how to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 3 large potatoes)
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. Drain any excess fat.
Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until soft and fragrant.
Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it all simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens a little.
Transfer this tasty beef mixture into a casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
Top it off with your prepared mashed potatoes, spreading them to cover the filling completely.
Dot the top with butter and sprinkle on some shredded cheddar cheese if you fancy.
Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Serve this casserole hot from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a crispy salad or some crusty bread on the side. Everyone will appreciate a dollop of ketchup or some extra Worcestershire sauce for drizzling, too!

how to store Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Leftovers? No problem! You can keep this shepherd’s pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the oven for a warm, cozy treat. It also freezes well! Wrap individual portions tightly and they’ll be good for up to 3 months in the freezer.

tips to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

If you want some extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture.
For a creamier topping, mix a bit of sour cream or cream cheese into your mashed potatoes.
This dish is versatile! You can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option.

variation (if any)

You can easily make this dish your own! Try adding other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to the beef mixture. Or, if you’re in the mood for something different, switch up the mashed potatoes with sweet potatoes for a twist on the traditional flavor.

FAQs

Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they are well-seasoned.

What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
Feel free to get creative! Corn, green beans, or even mushrooms would make great additions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and mash the potatoes in advance, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat.

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