Why Make This Recipe
Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a warm and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. It combines hearty ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes in one dish. This recipe is easy to make and is a crowd-pleaser for families and friends alike. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftovers and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
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
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
- Dot with butter and sprinkle with cheddar cheese if using.
- Bake for 20–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
Serve the Shepherd’s Pie Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added flavor. Enjoy it as a hearty main course that will warm you up!
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 also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
- For creamier mashed potatoes, add a little milk or cream and butter before spreading them on top.
- Try using ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.
- Add extra flavor by using different seasonings, like thyme or rosemary, in the beef mixture.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole by using different vegetables, such as green beans or bell peppers. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese on top, like mozzarella or Parmesan, for a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I make Shepherd’s Pie Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the beef mixture.
Is Shepherd’s Pie Casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and check the beef broth for gluten-free options.
Shepherd's Pie Casserole
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1 pound ground beef can also use ground turkey or chicken
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) can substitute with fresh vegetables
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth ensure gluten-free if needed
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce use gluten-free option if necessary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the topping
- 3 cups mashed potatoes consider adding milk or cream for creaminess
- 2 tablespoons butter for dotting on top
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) can substitute with mozzarella or Parmesan
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Assembly and Baking
- Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
- Dot with butter and sprinkle with cheddar cheese if using.
- Bake for 20–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.