Shepherd's Pie (Ground Beef) is the epitome of comfort food. This classic, family-friendly dish layers savory ground beef, mixed vegetables, and a fluffy, golden-brown topping of mashed potatoes. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s hearty, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping dinner for the week, this recipe is the perfect go-to.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- One-pot cooking for easy cleanup
- Savory beef and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes
- Affordable ingredients that you probably already have on hand
- Versatile—can easily be made with ground turkey or chicken
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
What Makes This Shepherd’s Pie Special?
This version uses ground beef chuck, which makes the filling rich and juicy. With a mix of frozen vegetables (no need to thaw them!), it’s quick and easy to prepare. The mashed potato topping gets golden brown and crispy in the oven, offering the perfect contrast to the flavorful beef filling. It’s pure comfort in a dish.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcook the beef—brown it just until it’s no longer pink for a juicy filling.
- Use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience and to save time, but feel free to use fresh if you prefer.
- Season generously with salt and pepper—the potatoes need seasoning too!
- For a crispy potato topping, use a fork to create peaks and lines in the mashed potatoes before baking.
- If you have leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is a great way to use them up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken will work as a leaner option. Just be sure to season it well to make up for the lower fat content.
What vegetables can I use in place of mixed vegetables?
You can use any combination of vegetables you prefer, such as peas, carrots, corn, or green beans. Fresh vegetables can also be used if you prefer.
How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?
Use heavy cream or half-and-half in the mashed potatoes, and add butter to taste. For extra creaminess, mash the potatoes with a potato ricer or use a hand mixer.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the beef filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
How to Freeze
After baking, let the shepherd's pie cool completely. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating at 350°F.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef chuck
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsps ketchup
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 box (10 oz) frozen mixed vegetables (no need to thaw)
- ½ cup water
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Potato Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
- 1 tbsp melted butter
How to Make Martha Stewart's Shepherd’s Pie (Ground Beef)
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (175°C).
- Cook the beef: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for about 4–5 minutes until no longer pink. Add the onion and garlic and cook for an additional 4 minutes until softened.
- Make the filling: Add thyme, ketchup, and flour, and stir until combined. Add ½ cup water and the frozen vegetables. Cook for about 3 minutes until the vegetables are warmed through and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the pie: Transfer the beef mixture into a 2-quart baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, smoothing them with a spatula. Use a fork to make peaks and lines in the potatoes.
- Bake: Place the dish on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes or until the potato topping is lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve with a side salad or your favorite vegetable.
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