Beginners Shepherd’s Pie

Have you ever searched for “shepherd’s pie” on Pinterest? Holy moly, I recently tried and was surprised to find some really complicated recipes. I will be the first to admit that I am not a chef. I’m more of a “let's throw this together and pray for the best” kind of person. If that sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place!

After my disappointing Pinterest search, I set out to make a super easy shepherd's pie. When I finally figured it out, it was a game changer. Now we love eating shepherd’s pie! It’s in my dinner menu rotation at least once a month. It makes for the best leftovers too. A great two-night-meal, if you will. 

Let’s get to cooking!

Ingredients

Filling: 

• 1 lb. ground beef

• 2 cups frozen carrots and peas

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp flour

• 1/2 cup beef broth

• 1 tbsp minced onion

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese

Mashed potatoes:

• 4-5 potatoes, peeled and cubed

• Half stick (4 tbsp) butter

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• Splash of milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Prepare mashed potatoes. I like to do this in my pressure cooker. It saves so much time. I also like to make the mashed potatoes in the morning if I know I am making this for dinner – less to do when dinner time rolls around. 

• Boil peeled and cubed potatoes for about an hour, or until tender (or 6 minutes in my Ninja Foodi). Drain.

• Add remaining ingredients to potatoes and mix with hand mixer until everything is smooth and to your liking. Set aside (cover and store in fridge if you are making them ahead).

Step 2: Prep filling ingredients. Preheat oven to 350.

Step 3: Brown beef with garlic and onions. Drain any excess grease. 

Step 4: Add 2 cups of frozen veggies and cook for about 5-7 minutes. 

Step 5: Sprinkle flour over the meat and veggies. Stir to incorporate. 

Step 6: Add tomato paste to beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Combine and then pour over meat and veggie mixture. 

Step 7: Stir until meat and veggies are well-coated. 

Step 8: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes. 

Step 9: Grab a 9x13 casserole dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Add the meat mixture to the dish in an even layer. 

Step 10: Top the meat with mashed potatoes, smoothing until even. 

Step 11: Sprinkle cheese on top and bake for 30 minutes. 

You can broil for a couple minutes at the end for a nice crispy finish but be sure to keep a close eye on it! I almost caught the house on fire over Thanksgiving, so my broiler privileges have been revoked. One little fire and everyone freaks out. LOL. 

Enjoy! I remember the first time I made this, I was so freaking proud. I’m gross, so I like mine with ranch dressing. Geez, just when I don’t think I can get any more embarrassing, I spill secrets like that. 

I hope you are feeling lucky to be you! 

Always and Whatever 

Xo