Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Introduction

Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the stomach. This Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole takes this classic meal to the next level with its layers of savory beef and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for family dinners, and it’s also great for leftovers!

Why make this recipe

Making Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is not only simple, but it’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables and mashed potatoes. It’s a one-dish meal that is satisfying, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you are feeding your family or having friends over, this recipe will surely impress.

How to prepare Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Making this Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a breeze. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

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)

Steps:

PIN IT

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Transfer the beef mixture to a casserole dish, spreading evenly.
Top with prepared mashed potatoes, spreading to cover the filling completely.
Dot the mashed potatoes with butter and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if using.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Serve this dish warm right from the oven. You can garnish it with some fresh herbs like parsley for an added touch. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal.

How to store Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

After serving, if you have leftovers, simply cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it before baking if you want to save it for later.

Tips to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole perfectly

Make sure to drain the ground beef well to avoid a greasy casserole.
Use homemade mashed potatoes for a richer flavor, but store-bought will work just fine too.
If you want extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture.

Variations

Veggie Version: You can make a vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie by using lentils instead of ground beef and adding more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
Cheesy Twist: Mix some cheese into the mashed potatoes for a creamy, cheesy layer on top.
Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the beef mixture if you like a bit of heat.

FAQ

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and makes a lighter version of the dish.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: You can reheat in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can make it a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.

Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole