Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

why make this recipe

Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. It combines ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes into a hearty one-dish meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also allows for easy cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

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:

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

how to serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole hot from the oven. It goes well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

how to store Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

tips to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

• Use leftover mashed potatoes if you have them for an even quicker meal.
• Feel free to add other vegetables you like or have on hand.
• For extra flavor, add herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture.

variation

For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes for a lower-carb option.

FAQs

Can I make Shepherd’s Pie Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish and assemble it in advance, then cover and refrigerate it. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What type of beef should I use?
Ground beef is traditional, but you can use any ground meat or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook them a little longer to soften them before adding to the beef mixture.

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