Print

Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 76 reviews

This Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole combines seasoned ground beef and mixed vegetables in a savory tomato and beef broth sauce, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef 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
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Once cooked, drain the excess fat to prevent greasiness in the dish.
  3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
  4. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Simmer the Mixture: Allow the beef and vegetable mixture to simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Assemble in Casserole Dish: Transfer the simmered beef mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it evenly to form the base layer.
  7. Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture to cover it completely.
  8. Add Butter and Cheese: Dot the mashed potato layer with butter for richness and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if using, for a deliciously melted cheesy crust.
  9. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly, indicating it’s hot and cooked through.
  10. Rest Before Serving: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a more traditional shepherd’s pie flavor.
  • Feel free to add Worcestershire sauce gradually to adjust the tanginess to your liking.
  • For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef and reduce butter or omit the cheese topping.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: shepherd's pie, casserole, ground beef recipe, comfort food, baked mashed potatoes, easy dinner

Find it online: https://chefmilacook.com/easy-shepherds-pie-casserole-recipe/