why make this recipe
Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is an easy and comforting dish that brings together hearty ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something warm and filling. This recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly, making it a great option for families. Plus, it can easily feed a crowd, so it’s perfect for gatherings or meal prep for the week.
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 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 casserole hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with your favorite condiments, like ketchup or hot sauce, for extra flavor.
how to store Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it well with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
tips to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker prep time.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- If you want a crispy top, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes after baking.
variation
You can make this dish with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Also, try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different taste.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just chop them and sauté them until tender before adding them to the meat mixture.
Can I make Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and mashed potatoes in advance. Assemble the casserole and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Is Shepherd’s Pie gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. However, you can look for gluten-free versions of these ingredients or use homemade broth without gluten.
Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
Ingredients
For the beef mixture
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) Fresh vegetables can be used if preferred.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth Choose gluten-free broth if needed.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Opt for gluten-free if necessary.
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the topping
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 3 large potatoes) Leftover mashed potatoes can be used for convenience.
- 2 tablespoons butter Dot on top for added flavor.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) Add for extra taste if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- 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.
Assembly and Baking
- 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.