Easy Shepherd’s Pie

 

A quick and comforting casserole that combines savory beef, hearty vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy potato topping. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner for a hungry family!

Yields: 4-6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef, browned and seasoned with salt & pepper

• 2 cups hot mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade)

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened (½ standard package)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp jarred minced garlic)

• 4 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawed (such as corn, carrots, peas, and green beans)

• 1 cup beef gravy (from a jar, packet, or homemade)
  

  Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch square (or similar 2-quart) baking dish.

  2. Make the Cheesy Potato Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the hot mashed potatoes, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

  3. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, stir together the browned ground beef, thawed mixed vegetables, and beef gravy. Mix until everything is evenly coated in the gravy.

  4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the cheesy potato mixture over the top and use a spatula to spread it into a smooth, even layer, sealing it to the edges.

  5. Add the Final Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the potato layer.

  6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the top is lightly golden, and the filling is bubbly around the edges.

  7. Serve: Let the shepherd’s pie cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly for perfect, neat scoops. Enjoy!

  Tips for Success:

  • Thaw Vegetables: Ensure your frozen vegetables are thawed to avoid excess water in the casserole. You can quickly thaw them by rinsing in warm water in a colander.

  • Creamy Potatoes: For an extra smooth potato topping, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.

  • Customize It: Feel free to add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture or mix some fresh chopped parsley into the potatoes for extra flavor.