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Cozy Shepherds Pie Recipe with Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

cozy shepherds pie with garlic mashed potatoes - featured image

A comforting shepherd’s pie featuring a savory ground beef and vegetable filling topped with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or lamb if preferred)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
  • 1 cup (130 g) diced carrots
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) beef broth or stock (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 lbs (900 g) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk or cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Peel and chop 2 pounds (900 g) of potatoes into roughly equal-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water along with 4 peeled garlic cloves. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well and return to the pot.
  2. Add 4 tablespoons of softened butter and 1/2 cup (120 ml) of warm milk or cream to the potatoes and garlic. Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside, keeping warm.
  3. While potatoes are boiling, heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add 1 cup (130 g) diced carrots and cook another 5 minutes, until slightly tender.
  5. Mix in 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1/2 cup (120 ml) beef broth, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Stir well and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Fold in 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
  6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat and veggie filling evenly in a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking dish. Spoon the garlic mashed potatoes on top, spreading gently to cover the filling completely. Use a fork to create texture on the potato surface.
  7. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges. For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully.
  8. Let the shepherd’s pie cool for about 5 minutes before serving to help it set up and make it easier to portion.

Notes

Use Yukon gold potatoes for creamier mash. Fresh garlic boiled with potatoes enhances flavor. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a crispy topping. Adjust seasoning well. Can substitute peas with corn or add mushrooms. For vegetarian version, use lentils or mushrooms and vegetable broth. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3 days or freeze assembled pie before baking for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: shepherd's pie, garlic mashed potatoes, comfort food, ground beef, easy dinner, cozy meal, family-friendly