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Cozy Shepherds Pie Recipe with Easy Creamy Potato Topping for Dinner

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A comforting shepherd’s pie featuring a savory ground beef filling with caramelized onions and herbs, topped with a fluffy, creamy potato layer. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or lamb for traditional shepherd’s pie)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well and set aside.
  2. While potatoes cook, heat skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Mix in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Toss in peas and carrots, then pour in beef broth. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. In a mixing bowl, mash drained potatoes with butter and cream. Use a mixer or masher until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
  7. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spoon the meat filling into your baking dish, spreading evenly. Carefully dollop and spread the creamy potato topping over the filling, smoothing with a spatula.
  8. Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the potato topping is lightly golden and edges are bubbling. For an extra golden crust, broil for the last 2 minutes but watch carefully.
  9. Let the shepherd’s pie sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Start potatoes in cold water to cook evenly. Use lean ground beef (85% lean) for balanced flavor and fat. If potato topping is too stiff, warm slightly or add a teaspoon of milk. Avoid over-stirring filling after adding broth. Rest pie 5 minutes before serving for easier scooping. Variations include vegetarian lentil or mushroom filling, low-carb mashed cauliflower topping, and adding smoked paprika for spice.

Nutrition

Keywords: shepherd's pie, cottage pie, creamy potato topping, ground beef, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, cozy recipe

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/cozy-shepherds-pie-recipe-with-easy-creamy-potato-topping-for-dinner/