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A classic shepherd's pie served in a rustic ceramic baking dish, topped with a golden brown layer of melted cheddar cheese. The dish reveals a hearty filling of ground beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes, with a slightly crispy top. The edges of the pie are slightly crisped, and steam rises gently from the dish, creating an inviting, comforting presentation.

Easy Shepherds Pie


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Easy, Comfort Food

Description

Easy Shepherds Pie is a hearty and comforting Irish classic featuring tender ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping, perfect for family dinners and cozy nights. This simple recipe combines rich flavors with cheesy goodness, making it a favorite for all ages.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or lamb for a traditional touch)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • ½ cup butter
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth, then set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and carrots until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour in broth and simmer until thickened. Mix in frozen peas and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer beef mixture into a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat. Sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a crispy top, if desired.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for best mashed potato texture.
  • Thicken the beef mixture properly to prevent spillage during baking.
  • For a cheesier topping, add extra cheese in the last few minutes of baking.
  • This dish can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Irish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 520 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg