What are the key ingredients for Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole?

The key ingredients for Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole include ground beef (or a substitute like lamb or turkey), onions, garlic, mixed vegetables like peas and carrots, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings like thyme and black pepper. For the mashed potato topping, you’ll need potatoes, butter, milk, and salt. These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to beef in Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole if you’re looking for a leaner option. Turkey has a milder flavor, so you may want to add extra seasonings like garlic powder or paprika to enhance the taste. Just cook the turkey as you would the beef, ensuring it’s fully browned before mixing it with the other ingredients. It’s a versatile swap that still delivers a delicious and satisfying meal.

What side dishes pair well with Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole?

Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides like a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread. These sides complement the rich, savory flavors of the casserole without overwhelming it, making for a well-rounded and comforting dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.

Can I prepare Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. If baking straight from the fridge, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or when you’re planning a stress-free family dinner.

What type of potatoes work best for the mashed topping?

For the creamiest mashed potato topping, starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal. Russets yield a fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds add a buttery richness. Peel and boil the potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and salt until smooth. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture for a golden, comforting finish that’s the hallmark of a classic Shepherd’s Pie Casserole.

Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole: 7 Simple Steps for a Delicious Meal

Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

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This easy shepherd’s pie casserole is a hearty, comforting dinner made with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, baked until golden and bubbly.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is no longer pink.

Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well, cooking for 1 minute.

Slowly pour in the beef broth, then stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.

Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, then spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Spread the mashed potatoes over the top, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and drizzle with melted butter.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

For extra flavor, substitute half of the beef broth with a dark ale or stout.
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and frozen unbaked for up to 3 months.

Author: Maisie