Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

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When you’re craving rich comfort in a single skillet, Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie delivers everything you love in a hearty dinner. This dish layers well-seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and a luscious mashed potato topping, then bakes it all to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies every corner of your hunger, while keeping things cozy and classic.

This version leans into convenience without sacrificing that traditional taste. No need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just honest food made delicious. It’s the perfect family-style dinner for chilly nights, meal prep lunches, or feeding a hungry crowd with minimal fuss.

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

• One-pan simplicity: Everything comes together in a single skillet or baking dish.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep it in the morning, bake when you’re ready.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or use leftover mashed potatoes.
• Freezer-ready: Perfect for freezing and pulling out on busy weeknights.

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Can I Use Instant Mashed Potatoes for Shepherd’s Pie?

Absolutely, you can. While homemade mashed potatoes bring unmatched creaminess, a good quality instant mashed potato works beautifully as a shortcut. For the best flavor, prepare them with butter and milk, and don’t forget a pinch of garlic or parmesan if you want a more gourmet touch.

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Ingredients for the Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Ground Beef
The star of the show—rich, savory, and loaded with protein. It creates a hearty base that holds up under the creamy topping.

Onion
Adds sweetness and aroma to the meat filling, creating a flavorful foundation.

Garlic
Just a couple of cloves transform the filling with depth and warmth.

Frozen Mixed Vegetables
A blend of peas, carrots, corn, and green beans adds color, texture, and nutrition without extra prep.

Tomato Paste
Adds a concentrated savory flavor and slight acidity that balances the richness.

Beef Broth
Moistens the mixture and enhances the beefy taste.

Worcestershire Sauce
A little goes a long way for that deep umami hit.

Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy, buttery, and crisped on top. The perfect blanket to seal the pie.

Butter & Milk
Used in the mashed potatoes to create creaminess and richness.

Salt & Pepper
Simple seasoning that ties all the layers together.

Thyme (optional)
Fresh or dried thyme gives a rustic herbal note that matches beautifully with beef.

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How To Make the Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef Base

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for another 3 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in ½ cup beef broth and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, then stir in 1½ cups frozen mixed vegetables. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon thyme if using.

Step 3: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

If not already made, boil 1½ pounds peeled potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with 4 tablespoons butter, ¼ cup milk, salt, and pepper to taste. Mash until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat and veggie filling evenly in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading to cover the surface completely. Use a fork to create rustic ridges.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is lightly golden. For extra crisp edges, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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How to Serve Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie

This recipe yields 6 generous servings. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for color. It pairs perfectly with a side salad or warm dinner rolls if you’re feeling extra cozy.

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Best Way to Store Shepherd’s Pie

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout. For freezing, let the dish cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and still tastes delicious in this dish.

Is Shepherd’s Pie gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free beef broth and tomato paste. Always check the labels to be sure.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble it fully, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

What potatoes work best for the topping?
Yukon Golds or Russets work beautifully. They mash well and give a creamy texture.

How do I add more flavor?
Try stirring in a bit of grated cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes or a splash of red wine into the beef filling.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this comforting classic, check out some more crowd-pleasing dinners from Mad For Meals:

• Creamy Chicken Lasagna Recipe
• Philly Steak Cheese Fries
• Mama’s Cornbread Dressing
• Ground Beef and Dumplings
• Classic Macaroni and Cheese

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Let me know in the comments if you added your own twist to this shepherd’s pie. Did you go full classic or sneak in some cheese? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

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