Shepherd’s Pie (Ground Beef Version)

Here’s a classic Shepherd’s Pie–style recipe made with ground beef (technically called Cottage Pie when beef is used). It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for dinner. 🥔🥩

🥧 Shepherd’s Pie (Ground Beef Version)

⏱ Time

Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 40 minutes
Total: ~1 hour
Serves: 4–6

🧾 Ingredients

For the Meat Filling

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
2 tbsp flour (to thicken)
2 tbsp oil or butter

For the Mashed Potato Topping

2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tbsp butter
½ cup milk (or cream)
Salt to taste
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Mashed Potatoes

Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender.
Drain and mash with butter, milk, and salt.
Mix until creamy. Set aside.

2️⃣ Cook the Beef Filling

Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
Add ground beef and cook until browned (break it apart while cooking).
Stir in carrots and cook 5 minutes.

3️⃣ Make the Sauce

Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir.
Pour in beef broth slowly and mix well.
Simmer 5–7 minutes until thick.
Stir in peas and cook 2 more minutes.

4️⃣ Assemble the Pie

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Spread the beef mixture in a baking dish.
Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top.
Sprinkle cheese if using.
Use a fork to make ridges (helps browning).

5️⃣ Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

✅ Serving Tip:
Let the pie rest 10 minutes before serving so it holds its shape.

⭐ Optional Add-Ins

Mushrooms
Corn
Rosemary
A splash of red wine in the sauce