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Homemade Simple Shepherds Pie Recipe photo

Simple Shepherds Pie Recipe

This Simple Shepherd's Pie is pure comfort food! A rich beef filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes makes it an instant family favorite.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: British
Keyword: Comfort Food, Easy, Hearty
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds Idaho potatoes for a fluffy and creamy topping
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup butter for richness
  • 4 ounces cream cheese adds creaminess to the potatoes
  • Milk enough to get the desired consistency of the mashed potatoes

For the Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 1 pound ground beef (93/7) the base of the filling
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour for thickening the filling
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce enhances the meaty flavor
  • 2 cups beef stock for depth of flavor
  • 1 1/2 cups frozen vegetables a mix of your favorites to add color and nutrition

Instructions

Steps to Prepare Simple Shepherd's Pie:

  • Start by peeling the Idaho potatoes and cutting them into even chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  • Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Add the butter, cream cheese, and a splash of milk. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk for your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
  • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat if necessary.
  • Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Pour in the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes. Add the frozen vegetables and stir to heat through.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly on the bottom. Top with the creamy mashed potatoes, spreading them out evenly with a spatula. Use a fork to create peaks and swirls on the surface for a beautiful golden finish.
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  • Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Dish it out into bowls and enjoy your Simple Shepherd's Pie with a side of your favorite salad or crusty bread.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula
  • Baking Dish

Notes

  • Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For a lower-carb option, consider using mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.