Classic Beef Shepherd’s Pie
This classic beef shepherd’s pie is a hearty and satisfying cheap dinner recipe that brings comfort to your table without breaking the bank. You can create a delicious and filling meal that everyone will love, perfect for any weeknight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or lentils for a vegetarian option.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for mashing. Sweet potatoes are a nice alternative.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, fresh or frozen.
- Beef Broth: Vegetable broth can be substituted.
- Tomato Paste: Ketchup can be used in a pinch for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, carrots, green beans)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, large pot, potato masher, 9×13 inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Place your peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are very tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well.
2. Mash the Potatoes
Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
5. Thicken the Filling
Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetables and stir for 1 minute. This helps to thicken your sauce. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, and dried thyme.
6. Simmer the Filling
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
7. Assemble the Pie
Spoon the beef mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Carefully spread the mashed potato topping over the beef mixture, making sure to cover it completely. You can use a fork to create decorative ridges.
8. Bake Your Shepherd’s Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the shepherd’s pie for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Variation Ideas
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the beef filling for extra depth.
- Stir in some grated cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy topping.
- Top with crispy fried onions during the last 5 minutes of baking for added crunch.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover shepherd’s pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. This makes it a great cheap dinner option for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make shepherd’s pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire pie, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What kind of ground beef should I use?
Lean ground beef (85-90%) is best to avoid too much grease, making it a healthier cheap dinner option.
Can I freeze shepherd’s pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked and cooled shepherd’s pie, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why is my mashed potato topping watery?
This usually happens if your potatoes weren’t thoroughly drained after boiling, or if you added too much milk. Ensure your potatoes are very dry before mashing.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the beef filling. This can make for a more varied and nutritious cheap dinner recipe.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can easily substitute dried herbs for fresh. As a general rule, use 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
