Name: Easy Shepherd's Pie Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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This easy shepherd’s pie casserole is one of my favorite comfort meals when I want something hearty and familiar. I love how the savory meat filling pairs with creamy mashed potatoes, all baked together into one satisfying dish. It’s simple, cozy, and perfect for feeding a hungry family without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s straightforward and made with ingredients I usually have on hand. I like how everything bakes together into layers of flavor, making each bite comforting and filling. It’s also a great option for leftovers, which makes it ideal for busy weeks.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
onion, diced
garlic, minced
frozen mixed vegetables
beef broth
tomato paste
worcestershire sauce
salt
black pepper
paprika
olive oil
mashed potatoes
shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a skillet and cooking the ground beef with the diced onion until browned. I add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. I stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika, letting everything simmer until slightly thickened. I spread the beef mixture evenly into a baking dish and layer the frozen vegetables on top. I gently spread the mashed potatoes over everything, smoothing the surface. I sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and bake until the casserole is hot and the top is lightly golden.

Servings and timing

I usually make this casserole to serve 6 people.
Preparation time: about 20 minutes
Baking time: about 30 minutes
Total time: approximately 50 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap ground beef for ground turkey or lamb depending on what I have. When I want extra flavor, I mix a little garlic or butter into the mashed potatoes. I also enjoy adding corn or peas separately instead of mixed vegetables for a more classic feel.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in the oven until heated through. If needed, I cover it loosely to prevent the potatoes from drying out.

FAQs

Can I make shepherd’s pie casserole ahead of time?

I often assemble it ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to one day before baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?

I freeze it after baking and cooling completely, then thaw it overnight before reheating.

What vegetables work best in this recipe?

I like using peas, carrots, and corn because they hold up well and add sweetness.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

I do use them sometimes, and they work just fine when I’m short on time.

How do I keep the mashed potatoes from drying out?

I make sure they’re creamy to begin with and avoid overbaking the casserole.

Conclusion

Easy shepherd’s pie casserole is a comforting classic I love making when I want something warm, filling, and reliable. It’s simple to prepare, great for leftovers, and always delivers that cozy, homemade feeling I look for in a family-style dinner.

Easy Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

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A cozy and hearty shepherd’s pie casserole made with a savory ground beef filling, mixed vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all baked together for an easy family-friendly comfort meal.

Author: Mayaa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cups prepared mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion and cook until the beef is browned.
Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
Layer the frozen mixed vegetables evenly over the meat.
Gently spread the mashed potatoes over the vegetables, smoothing the top.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until heated through and lightly golden on top.