Simple "Shepherd's Pie" Recipe

Name: Simple "Shepherd's Pie"
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; ½ cup onion, chopped; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 4 russet potatoes, cubed; 1 cup milk; 3 tablespoons butter; ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or more); ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups frozen corn; 1 cup frozen cut green beans; 1 ½ cups beef gravy, prepared; ½ teaspoon paprika, for sprinkling; ½ cup cheddar cheese, grated (optional)

Servings: persons

1 lb ground beef
½ cup onion, chopped
½ teaspoon garlic powder
4 russet potatoes, cubed
1 cup milk
3 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon kosher salt (or more)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups frozen corn
1 cup frozen cut green beans
1 ½ cups beef gravy, prepared
½ teaspoon paprika, for sprinkling
½ cup cheddar cheese, grated (optional)

1
Please note: you do not need to make your own mashed potatoes!
2
Yes, the flavor is better, but most people are in a rush at dinner and I use the Potato Buds all the time.
3
Everyone still loves it.
4
Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
5
Put potatoes to boil in heavily salted water.
6
Cover slightly and simmer over medium or medium low heat for 20 minutes, or until done.
7
It may take more or less time depending on the cube size and type of potato as russet are not necessary.
8
I just prefer the texture for this.
9
Brown ground beef in 10 or 12 inch oven proof skillet.
10
Cast iron is preferred.
11
Drain ground beef and put aside.
12
Add the onion and cook until onion is translucent.
13
If you are substituting fresh garlic for the powdered, add it now and cook until fragrant.
14
I really prefer the powdered for this recipe.
15
Add the powdered at this time.
16
Turn off heat.
17
Make the mashed potatoes: If using homemade, drain cooked potatoes and let steam off for a bit.
18
Put back in pan and mash with butter, salt and pepper.
19
Add milk until creamy.
20
Because of the oven time, the potatoes should not be stiff.
21
Add more milk if necessary.
22
Put ground beef in skillet with the onions.
23
Mix in the vegetables and pour gravy over all.
24
Top with mashed potatoes.
25
Sprinkle with paprika if desired.
26
Bake at 375 for 25 minutes until bubbly and potatoes slightly brown.
27
If using, sprinkle with cheese and heat until melted.
28
Let sit for 10 minutes or so and serve.
29
The sitting time will help firm things up a bit to make serving a bit easier.

896

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 lb ground beef, ½ cup onion, chopped, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, 4 russet potatoes, cubed, and more.

Yes, Simple "Shepherd's Pie" falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Simple "Shepherd's Pie"

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions