Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and cozy dish filled with tender meat, veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes on top. It cooks slowly, making everything extra tasty!
This dish is a lifesaver for busy days. Just toss in the ingredients, let it simmer, and you’ve got a comforting meal waiting for you. Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Both work great in Shepherd’s Pie. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey can also be used. Just season it well to ensure flavor. I often use beef for its rich taste that pairs well with the veggies.
Mixed Vegetables: You can use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience. If you want fresh, carrots, peas, and corn are classic choices, but feel free to add bell peppers or green beans. Using whatever you have on hand can save a trip to the store!
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the filling. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, chicken broth works just fine. For a vegetarian version, consider using vegetable broth.
Potatoes: Regular potatoes are ideal for mashing, but you could also try sweet potatoes for a different flavor. They’re nutritious and slightly sweeter, making for a nice twist!
How Do You Make Mashed Potatoes Perfectly Every Time?
Making fluffy mashed potatoes is all about texture and temperature. Here are some tips to get them just right:
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for the creamiest mash.
- Don’t over-boil them; you want them tender but not mushy. About 15 minutes should do it!
- Drain well before mashing to avoid watery potatoes, and mash them while they’re still warm for best results.
- Incorporate the butter and milk gradually to achieve your desired creaminess. For extra flavor, try adding sour cream or cream cheese.
Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef or lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4–5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk (more if needed)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie requires about 15 minutes of prep time and takes anywhere from 6 to 8 hours to cook on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high) in the crockpot. It’s perfect for a day when you want a lovely homemade meal without spending all day in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Start by boiling the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water. Let them cook for about 15 minutes or until they are tender. Drain them well and mash with the butter and milk until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then set aside.
2. Brown the Meat:
While the potatoes are boiling, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or lamb, and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Mix the Filling:
Transfer the browned meat mixture to your crockpot. Stir in the mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is combined well before moving on to the next step.
4. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. When the cooking time is up, check that the vegetables are tender and everything is mixed well.
5. Assemble the Pie:
After the filling is ready, spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meat and vegetable mixture in the crockpot. Sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese on top will make it even more delicious!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will ensure that the cheese melts perfectly and the top of the potatoes starts to get a lovely golden color.
7. Serve:
Once everything is bubbly and golden, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Dish out your comforting Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie and enjoy a warm, hearty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly in this recipe. They’re convenient and save prep time. Just toss them in straight from the bag without thawing for best results!
Can I Make This Shepherd’s Pie Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian! Substitute the ground meat with lentils, mushrooms, or your favorite plant-based ground meat. Be sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain the flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth if it seems a little dry.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and mash the potatoes a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge. Assemble everything in the crockpot when you’re ready to cook, and enjoy! This is especially great for meal prep or busy days!