Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

There’s something truly comforting about a hearty, home-cooked meal that brings everyone to the table. This easy shepherd’s pie casserole is one of those dishes—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug. Growing up, family always gathered around the table for meals like this, and now, I love recreating those memories in my own kitchen. With its savory beef filling, creamy mashed potatoes, and golden cheese topping, this casserole is a modern twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for dinner parties or family dinners, it’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting easy shepherd’s pie casserole:

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• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup frozen mixed peas and carrots
• 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Recommended Tools You’ll Need

• whisk
• measuring spoon
• spatula

Cook Time

Prep Time	Cook Time	Setting Time	Total Time
20 minutes	30 minutes	0 hours	50 minutes

This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

See also: sweet potato casserole recipe.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size	Calories	Sugar	Fiber
1 serving	~350 kcal	~4g	~3g

This dish is hearty and satisfying, with a good balance of protein and carbs.

You may also enjoy our slow cooker beef potato casserole.

How to Make easy shepherd’s pie casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with a pastry brush and melted butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the finely chopped yellow onion. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small pieces and cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly with the wooden spoon to prevent burning.
4. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the beef mixture and stir well with the wooden spoon. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Slowly pour the beef broth into the skillet while stirring continuously with the wooden spoon. Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme, mixing thoroughly to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently with the wooden spoon. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots using the wooden spoon until evenly distributed. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a silicone spatula.
8. Spread the prepared mashed potatoes over the beef mixture using a rubber spatula, creating an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
9. Drizzle the melted butter over the cheese layer using a small measuring spoon or pastry brush. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Use oven mitts to carefully remove the dish from the oven.

Expert Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your easy shepherd’s pie casserole turns out perfectly:

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• Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
• If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Make sure the beef mixture is simmering before transferring it to the baking dish to ensure a thick, flavorful sauce.

Variations

Try these creative twists on the classic easy shepherd’s pie casserole:

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• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile.
• Add a layer of corn kernels or diced bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Use sweet potato mash instead of regular mashed potatoes for a slightly sweeter topping.

Healthier Alternatives

Make this dish a bit lighter with these substitutions:

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• Use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for leaner protein.
• Opt for low-sodium beef broth and reduced-fat cheese.
• Replace the mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash for fewer carbs.

Serving Suggestions

This easy shepherd’s pie casserole pairs beautifully with:

For more ideas, check out our guide on creamy beef potato casserole.

• A crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a fresh contrast.
• A slice of crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the savory sauce.
• A glass of red wine or a cold beer for a cozy evening meal.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, microwave individual portions for a quick meal. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes in one satisfying dish. It’s simple to make, versatile, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family dinners growing up—warm, hearty, and filled with love. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. It’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home too.

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