Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

why make this recipe

When you need a meal that is the very definition of hearty, comforting, and satisfying, look no further than Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole. This classic dish transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a complete, family-friendly feast: a flavorful, savory filling of ground beef and vegetables simmered in a rich gravy, all crowned with a blanket of creamy, golden-brown mashed potatoes. It’s the perfect one-dish wonder for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekends. Our recipe, perfected by Emma steph, streamlines the process without sacrificing an ounce of flavor, ensuring your Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is deliciously simple to make and impossible to resist.

Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole

A comforting dish that combines ground beef and mixed vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for busy nights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

For the meat mixture

• 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
• to taste Salt and pepper

For the topping

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 3 large potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons butter For dotting on top
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
• Let this mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
• Transfer the beef mixture to a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
• Top this with the prepared mashed potatoes, spreading it 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 or until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker meal. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize the flavor. If you want a crispy top, broil it for a few minutes at the end of the baking time.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Keyword Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Ground Beef, Shepherd's Pie

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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

The Savory Meat Filling

Ground Beef: Traditional and flavorful. For a lighter version, ground turkey or lamb can be used.

The Aromatic Base: A classic mirepoix of diced onions, carrots, and celery builds a sweet, savory foundation.

The Gravy: A combination of beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce creates a deeply flavorful, slightly thickened sauce that binds the filling. A sprinkle of flour helps thicken it perfectly for your Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole.

Frozen Peas & Corn: Added at the end for pops of color, sweetness, and texture. For another comforting casserole that’s a family favorite, try our Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole.

how to serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole warm right from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor.

how to store Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven until it’s hot throughout. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure it cools completely before wrapping and placing it in the freezer.

tips to make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

• Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker meal.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize the flavor.
• If you want a crispy top, broil it for a few minutes at the end of the baking time.

variation

For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap the mashed potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different twist.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and keep it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it.

Is it okay to use fresh vegetables?
Absolutely! You can use fresh vegetables, but make sure to cook them a bit before adding them to the beef mixture.

Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure it is completely cooled before you store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Prepare the filling and potatoes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time since you’re starting from cold.

Conclusion: The Quintessential Comfort Food Casserole

This Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm, nourishing hug on a plate. It represents the very best of home cooking: simple ingredients combined with care to create something deeply satisfying and universally loved. It’s forgiving for new cooks and a reliable favorite for experienced ones. Once this Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole becomes part of your recipe collection, you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again for its perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and comforting appeal. in the end this is our pinterest account for more ideas.