A warm, comforting beef pie topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden, bringing the classic comfort you love with a fresher, modern twist.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep: 15 min
Cook: 25–30 min
Total: 40–45 min
Ingredients
For the beef layer
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
For the mashed potato topping
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes
Boil the potatoes in salted water until very tender, then drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. - Prepare the beef filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in onion and garlic and cook until softened. - Add vegetables and seasoning
Stir in mixed vegetables, paprika, thyme, tomato paste, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly combined. - Simmer the filling
Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened and cohesive. - Assemble the pie
Spread the beef mixture in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface evenly. - Bake until golden
Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the edges are bubbling. - Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving so the layers settle and portions cut cleanly.
Nutrition Facts
Approx per serving (4 servings)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbs: 52 g
- Fat: 23 g
- Fiber: 5 g
Quick Facts
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Perfect for cozy dinners
- Keeps 3–4 days refrigerated
💡 Looking for a deeper dive into mashed potatoes? This dish becomes even more comforting when you understand the little secrets behind creamy perfection. Explore Grandma’s Mashed Potatoes for nostalgic, buttery results that elevate any shepherd’s pie.
💡 Want to switch things up with another savory beef option that’s fast and full of flavor? This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry offers a bold, quick-cooked meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights yet satisfying like a home-cooked favorite.
Tips
💡 For a richer potato topping, mix a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the mashed potatoes before spreading them over the beef layer. This gives the crust a velvety texture, helps it brown evenly, and adds a subtle tang that complements the savory filling.
💡 If you prefer a firmer beef base, allow the filling to simmer a few extra minutes to reduce more liquid. This concentrates the flavor and makes each portion hold its shape better, which is especially useful for leftovers or clean presentation.
Variations
Vegetable-Loaded Variation
Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture to create a fuller and more nourishing pie. These vegetables absorb seasoning and contribute moisture and texture, giving the dish added depth without increasing the meat.
Cheesy Potato Crust Variation
Mix shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the mashed potatoes before spreading them over the filling. As the pie bakes, the cheese melts into the potatoes and forms a golden, slightly crisp top with a creamy interior, perfect for cozy family meals.
Lightened-Up Variation
Replace half of the potatoes with cauliflower florets and steam them together before mashing. This creates a lighter, fluffier topping that still delivers comfort, while reducing carbs and giving the dish a modern, balanced feel.