Description
This easy Shepherd’s Pie recipe uses instant mashed potatoes for a quick and comforting weeknight dinner. With seasoned ground beef, tender veggies, and creamy potatoes, it’s a complete meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
1 ½ to 2 pounds instant mashed potatoes (prepared as directed)
1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, divided
1 medium onion, chopped
1 ½ pounds ground round beef
1 to 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
½ cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Pepper and favorite seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, thyme)
Instructions
1. Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to package instructions. Stir in half the butter, salt, and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt remaining butter. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
4. Stir in mixed vegetables, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread beef mixture in a baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Dot or brush with extra butter.
7. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until golden on top.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking for a cheesy crust.
Make ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.
Add garlic powder or thyme for more flavor depth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: easy shepherd’s pie, instant mashed potatoes, ground beef casserole, quick weeknight dinner