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Featured image of a delicious Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potato Shepherd’s Pie, baked to golden perfection.

Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potato Shepherd’s Pie

This shepherd's pie recipe elevates the classic comfort food with creamy, cheesy, garlicky mashed potatoes. A savory meat filling topped with a rich and flavorful potato layer creates a satisfying and unforgettable dish perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced, for meat filling
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • Salt and pepper to taste, for meat filling
  • 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced, for mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 cup butter, unsalted
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste, for mashed potatoes

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Large pot
  • Potato masher or electric mixer
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Prepare Meat Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess grease.
  2. Add onion, carrots, and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary; cook for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until sauce thickens.
  5. Stir in peas and corn; season with salt and pepper and set aside.
  6. Make Mashed Potatoes: Place potatoes in a pot, cover with water, and boil until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
  7. Return potatoes to the pot; add butter, milk/cream, sour cream/cream cheese, and garlic.
  8. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in cheddar cheese; season with salt and pepper and set aside.
  9. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  10. Pour meat filling into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  11. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat filling.
  12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Don't overcook the potatoes. Warm the milk/cream before adding it to the potatoes. Don't overmix the potatoes. Experiment with different types of cheese in the mashed potatoes. Broil for extra color. Add a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch. You can assemble the shepherd's pie ahead of time and bake it when you're ready to eat. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Vegetarian, sweet potato, and spicy variations are possible. Irish Shepherd's Pie (Cottage Pie): Traditionally, shepherd's pie is made with lamb and is called "cottage pie" when made with beef.