Savory Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Mashed Potato Topping

Savory Shepherd’s Pie with Cheesy Mashed Potato Topping

Introduction

This Savory Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food — a hearty, flavorful dish layered with perfectly seasoned ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted golden cheese on top. It’s a satisfying, one-pan meal that feels like a warm hug with every bite. Traditionally known as a humble farmhouse dish, this modern version is elevated with rich, homemade gravy and a luscious cheesy crust. Whether for family dinners or cozy weekends, this pie brings everyone to the table — and keeps them coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (or lamb for traditional shepherd’s pie)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

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• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or chopped fresh vegetables)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup beef broth

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• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

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For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1/2 cup milk (warm)

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided — half for the potatoes, half for topping)

For the Gravy (optional but recommended):

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon flour

• 1 cup beef broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 12–15 minutes until tender. Drain, then mash with butter, warm milk, salt, and garlic powder. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and set aside.

2. Cook the Meat Filling:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

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3. Build Flavor:
   Stir in tomato paste and flour, cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir well until the sauce thickens. Mix in peas and carrots and simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Assemble the Pie:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the meat filling into a deep pie dish or casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the creamy mashed potatoes, spreading them over the meat layer. Use a fork to create texture on top — this helps the cheese crisp up beautifully. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes.

5. Bake:
   Place the dish on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling.

6. Optional Gravy:
   While the pie bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually add beef broth, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Serve:
   Let the shepherd’s pie cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a drizzle of homemade gravy for that extra comforting touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this rich shepherd’s pie with a side of buttered green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh garden salad for balance. For an extra cozy meal, pair it with warm dinner rolls to soak up every bit of the savory gravy.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Shepherd’s Pie is pure comfort in every bite — layers of tender beef, rich gravy, fluffy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese that crisps to perfection in the oven. It’s the kind of meal that brings families together and warms the heart on chilly days. Easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and irresistibly delicious, this dish is sure to earn a permanent spot in your home-cooked favorites.