Lazy Shepherd’s Pie Beef (Print Version)

Savory ground beef, mixed veggies, and buttery potatoes create an easy, comforting classic main dish.

# Components:

→ Filling

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
05 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
06 - 1 cup beef broth
07 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
08 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Potato Topping

11 - 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes, store-bought or homemade)
12 - 2 tablespoons butter
13 - 1/4 cup whole milk
14 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
03 - Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
04 - Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
05 - Add frozen mixed vegetables and beef broth. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened.
06 - Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to an 8x8-inch baking dish.
07 - In a mixing bowl, blend mashed potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy.
08 - Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the beef filling. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.
09 - Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10 - Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy enough for busy nights thanks to simple steps
  • Uses mostly pantry and freezer staples
  • Delivers hearty flavors in under an hour
  • Family friendly and guaranteed comfort food
02 -
  • Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes
  • Freezes beautifully for meal prep or leftovers
  • Packed with protein and vegetables for a balanced one pan meal
03 -
  • Always simmer your filling until the sauce thickens to avoid soggy pie
  • If you have leftover gravy stir a little into the beef and vegetable base for even richer flavor
  • Taste the potato topping before spreading and adjust the salt and butter to your liking for a truly crave worthy crust

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