When it comes to comfort food that warms both the heart and stomach, few dishes can rival the classic Shepherd’s Pie recipe.

Hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor, this traditional meal has stood the test of time for good reason.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals ahead, shepherd’s pie is a satisfying choice that combines seasoned meat, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes all in one delicious bake.

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What is Shepherd’s Pie?

Shepherd’s pie is a savory casserole originating from the United Kingdom.

Traditionally made with ground lamb (hence the term shepherd), it’s layered with vegetables like peas and carrots, and topped with buttery mashed potatoes.

In the U.S., ground beef is commonly used in place of lamb, though technically, that version is called “cottage pie.”

No matter which meat you choose, the essence of the dish remains the same—rich, filling, and perfect for any night of the week.

Easy Homemade Shepherd’s Pie Recipe Video

Easy Homemade Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

A hearty Shepherd’s Pie made with savory meat, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection — the ultimate comfort food.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

1 lb ground lamb or beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion diced
2 cloves garlic minced
2 carrots diced
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp fresh thyme or ½ tsp dried
1 tsp fresh rosemary or ½ tsp dried
½ cup beef broth or stock
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

2 lbs potatoes Yukon Gold or Russet
4 tbsp butter
½ cup milk or cream
Salt to taste
Optional shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Method

Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onions and carrots for 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic, then add ground lamb and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Mix in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, salt, and pepper. Add broth and simmer 10 minutes.
Stir in frozen peas and cook 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Meanwhile, boil potatoes until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Mash with butter, milk, and salt until creamy.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread meat mixture in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and smooth evenly.
(Optional) Rough up surface with a fork and sprinkle with cheese.
Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Use ground lamb for authenticity, or beef for a cottage pie version.
Broil the pie for 2–3 minutes for a crisp golden crust.
Assemble ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Add mushrooms, corn, or green beans for extra flavor.

How to Make Shepherd’s Pie

Step 1: Make the Filling

In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Next, stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the broth and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Finally, fold in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the filling simmers, peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender.

Drain and mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Add salt to taste.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.

Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top and gently spread them out. For extra texture and flavor, you can rough up the surface with a fork and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie

Use lamb for authenticity: Traditional recipes use lamb, but ground beef works just as well.
Get a golden crust: Broil the pie for 2–3 minutes at the end to get a nicely browned topping.
Make it ahead: Assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Add more veggies: Mushrooms, corn, or green beans are great additions to bulk up the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Shepherd’s pie is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:

A side salad for freshness
Steamed green beans or asparagus
Freshly baked bread for extra indulgence

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze shepherd’s pie?
Yes! Shepherd’s pie freezes beautifully. Just cover tightly and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as usual.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap the meat for lentils or plant-based ground “meat” and use veggie broth instead of beef broth.

3. How long does shepherd’s pie last in the fridge?
It will keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Read More: Blackberry Glazed Chicken

Final Thoughts

This shepherd’s pie recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy hug in a dish.

Whether you stick with the traditional lamb or go with a modern beef twist, it’s a simple yet satisfying dinner that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version with friends or on social media—because good food is meant to be shared.