Comforting Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

This Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, layering savory ground beef or lamb with tender vegetables and rich gravy, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s hearty, wholesome, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. With its golden, cheesy topping and fragrant filling, this dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Vegetables

1. In a large skillet over medium heat , cook the ground beef or lamb until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion , diced carrots , and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Filling

1. Stir in the frozen peas , beef broth , tomato paste , Worcestershire sauce , dried thyme , salt , and pepper .
2. Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes , allowing it to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish , spreading it evenly across the bottom.
2. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat mixture, using a spatula to spread them evenly and create a smooth top layer.
3. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes for a gooey, golden finish.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, hearty dish!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is a classic comfort food that never disappoints. The savory meat and vegetable filling is perfectly balanced by the creamy mashed potatoes and optional cheesy topping. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Tips for Success

• Make it ahead : Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes if cooking from cold.
• Use leftover mashed potatoes : This is a great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes—just reheat them slightly before spreading over the filling.
• Swap proteins : Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative to beef or lamb.
• Add more veggies : Feel free to include diced celery, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra juices.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of gravy on top for extra indulgence.

Enjoy this Comforting Shepherd’s Pie Casserole —a timeless, satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings!