This Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and cozy dish made with savory ground meat, veggies, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for busy days!
Let’s be honest, there’s something magical about letting the slow cooker do all the work. I love coming home to that delicious smell! You might just want to keep a spoon handy for sneaking bites.
The best part? You can easily whip this up in the morning and let it cook all day. It’s like a warm hug on a plate when you get home. Enjoy every spoonful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Veggie crumbles can work if you want a meatless version!
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use onion powder and garlic powder, though fresh is always best for depth of taste.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies are super convenient. If you prefer fresh, go ahead and chop up some carrots, peas, and corn. You can also swap in other veggies like bell peppers or green beans!
Beef Broth: Beef broth brings richness. For a lighter flavor, chicken broth works well too. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute.
Mashed Potatoes: I recommend homemade mashed potatoes for this recipe, but instant is okay if you’re short on time. For a twist, add sour cream or cream cheese to the mash for extra creaminess!
How Do You Make the Perfect Mashed Potatoes for Topping?
The mashed potatoes are crucial for a delightful topping. To make them creamy and smooth, here’s what you should do:
- Start with peeled and cut potatoes. Boil them until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain excess water, but don’t rinse! Add butter and your choice of milk (or cream) while mashing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. For added flavor, mix in garlic powder or fresh herbs!
Spread the creamy mash evenly on the beef layer. This ensures every bite is full of goodness.
Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, 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 Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for mashed potatoes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie takes about 20 minutes to prepare and then requires 6-8 hours of cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high. Plan to enjoy it after a long day at work, and it’ll be all ready for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned all over, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once it’s nice and brown, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Now, add the diced onions and minced garlic right to the skillet with the beef. Sauté them together until the onions become soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This will add great flavor to your dish!
3. Transfer to the Crockpot:
Carefully transfer the beef, onion, and garlic mixture into your crockpot. Make sure to scrape out all those tasty bits!
4. Add the Veggies and Seasoning:
In the crockpot, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix to combine everything!
5. Cook for Hours of Deliciousness:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and let it cook. Choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to have those veggies nice and tender and all the flavors blended beautifully!
6. Add the Mashed Potatoes:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, it’s time to add the mashed potatoes! Spread them evenly over the beef and veggie mixture in the crockpot.
7. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust!
8. Final Cooking:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes. This will make sure the cheese melts perfectly and the whole dish is heated through.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Carefully serve the Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie warm. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color. Get ready for a comforting meal that feels like home!
Enjoy this comforting Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie with its rich beef filling, tender vegetables, creamy mashed potato topping, and cheesy golden crust!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still get a delicious dish.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or even vegetable broth if you’re looking for a non-meat option. Just remember, different broths will slightly alter the flavor, so choose based on your preference!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Just assemble in the crockpot in the morning, adding the mashed potatoes before cooking, and you’ll have a hearty dinner ready when you come home!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Shepherd’s Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or cover and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through!
