Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. This Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a simple twist on the beloved dish, combining layers of seasoned ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
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Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. It combines tasty ingredients into one dish, making cleanup a breeze. The flavor is rich and comforting, while the layered textures provide a satisfying bite. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes!
How to Make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
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)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the 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 it evenly.
- Top with the 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.
Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
A comforting twist on the classic Shepherd’s Pie, this casserole combines layers of seasoned ground beef and creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the 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 it evenly.
- Top with the 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.
Notes
For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef. This recipe can also be made vegetarian by using lentils or plant-based meat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to Serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
Serve the Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole hot from the oven, either in portions or family style. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy it with your favorite condiments, like ketchup or hot sauce, if you like an extra kick!
How to Store Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
Once cooled, cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
- For extra flavor, you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture.
- Use leftover roasted meat or chicken in place of ground beef for a different twist.
- Try using sweet potatoes for the topping for a healthier alternative.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by using lentils or plant-based meat instead of ground beef. Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and use your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms and spinach, to keep it hearty and delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I make Shepherd’s Pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for a day. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use homemade mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Homemade mashed potatoes can make the dish even more delicious.
3. What can I serve with Shepherd’s Pie?
A fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables work wonderfully as sides.
Conclusion
Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a delightful dish that combines flavors everyone loves. It’s perfect for any night of the week and is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With this simple recipe, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
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