Description

Craving a hearty, comforting meal that wraps you in warmth like a cozy blanket? The Best Shepherd’s Pie is your answer! This beloved dish layers savory ground beef, vibrant veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes, all topped with melty cheddar cheese for a one-pan meal that’s pure comfort.

Ingredients

To make The Best Shepherd’s Pie for 6 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds flavor, texture, or comfort to this classic dish:

Ground Beef (1 lb): The hearty, savory base of the filling.
Chopped Onion (1 cup): Adds sweet, savory depth.
Frozen Corn (2 cups, thawed): Brings sweetness and texture.
Frozen Peas (2 cups, thawed): Adds vibrant color and mild flavor.
Ketchup (2 tbsp): Provides a touch of tangy sweetness.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): Adds umami and depth.
Minced Garlic (2 tsp): Infuses the filling with warm, savory flavor.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Thickens the filling for a cohesive texture.
Beef Bouillon Granules (1 tsp): Boosts the savory, beefy flavor.
Cold Water (½ cup): Combines with cornstarch for a smooth sauce.
Sour Cream (½ cup): Adds creamy richness to the filling.
Mashed Potatoes (3½ cups, prepared with milk and butter): The creamy, comforting topping.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (¾ cup): Melts into gooey, sharp goodness.

Substitutions and Variations:

Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, lamb (for a traditional shepherd’s pie), or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Veggies: Replace corn and peas with carrots, green beans, or mixed frozen vegetables.
Ketchup: Use tomato paste or barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
Sour Cream: Substitute with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for similar creaminess.
Mashed Potatoes: Use instant mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, or cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.
Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Colby, or a dairy-free alternative.
Add-Ons: Stir in mushrooms, spinach, or a pinch of thyme for extra flavor.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The beef and cheese provide protein and richness, while the peas, corn, and onions add fiber and vitamins. The mashed potatoes and sour cream create a creamy, comforting texture, making this a balanced, hearty meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, cook 1 lb ground beef and 1 cup chopped onion over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, breaking the beef into crumbles, until no longer pink.
Drain excess fat to keep the dish light.

Tip: Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef evenly for a consistent texture.

Step 2: Add Veggies and Seasonings

Stir in 2 cups thawed frozen corn, 2 cups thawed frozen peas, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and 2 tsp minced garlic.
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Tip: Thaw veggies in the fridge or microwave to save time and ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Thicken the Filling

In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tsp beef bouillon granules, and ½ cup cold water until smooth.
Stir the cornstarch mixture into the beef mixture.
Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until thickened.
Stir in ½ cup sour cream and heat through, but do not boil.

Tip: Stir constantly while adding the cornstarch mixture to avoid lumps in the sauce.

Step 4: Add Mashed Potatoes and Cheese

Spread 3½ cups mashed potatoes (prepared with milk and butter) evenly over the beef mixture in the skillet.
Sprinkle ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 3-5 minutes until the potatoes are heated through and the cheese is melted.

Tip: If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish before adding potatoes and cheese, then bake at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon the shepherd’s pie onto plates or serve family-style from the skillet.
Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color, if desired.

Tip: Let the pie sit for 2-3 minutes before serving to make scooping easier.