Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef: A Hearty and Comforting Classic

This Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory ground beef, vegetables, and a rich, creamy mashed potato topping. The ground beef is simmered with onions, carrots, and peas, creating a flavorful filling that’s both hearty and satisfying. Topped with smooth mashed potatoes, this dish is baked to perfection, resulting in a golden, crispy topping. This version of shepherd's pie is perfect for a family dinner, and it’s easy to make ahead, so it’s great for busy weeknights. You can substitute the ground beef with ground lamb or turkey for a lighter variation. Serve it with a simple salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
  
  

• 1 medium onion, chopped
  
  

• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
  
  

• 1/2 cup frozen peas
  
  

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• 1/4 cup beef broth
  
  

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  
  

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  
  

• 1/4 cup butter
  
  

• 1/4 cup milk
  
  

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
   

2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat.
   
   

3. Add the chopped onion, carrot, peas, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
   
   

4. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
   
   

5. While the beef mixture simmers, boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
   
   

6. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
   

7. Transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing the top with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for extra flavor.
   
   

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
   
   

9. Let the shepherd’s pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 25g
  
  

• Fat: 20g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 25g
  
  

• Fiber: 4g
  
  

• Sugar: 5g
  
  

• Sodium: 650mg