Cozy & Healthy Shepherd’s Pie

Beef • 45 Min • Comfort

A rich, hearty, and comforting classic made with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and savoury gravy, all topped with creamy Parmesan mashed potatoes. This Canadian Cozy & Healthy Shepherd’s Pie is perfect for colder days, family dinners, and leftovers that taste even better the next day.

• 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 lb lean ground beef or ground lamb
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
• 1 to 2 cups beef broth, as needed
• 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• Fresh coriander or parsley for garnish

• 2 large white potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra Parmesan cheese for topping

1. Prepare the potatoes

Place the peeled potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–18 minutes until fork tender.

2. Cook the aromatics

While the potatoes cook, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Brown the meat

Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Cook 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.

4. Season the filling

Add parsley, oregano, rosemary, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste if using. Stir well to combine.

5. Add the vegetables

Stir in the peas, carrots, and corn. Add 1 cup beef broth and simmer for 5–8 minutes until the filling thickens slightly. Add more broth if needed to keep the mixture moist but not watery.

6. Mash the potatoes

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Mash until smooth and creamy.

7. Assemble the pie

Transfer the meat mixture into a greased glass baking dish or Pyrex dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.

8. Bake in the oven

Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until hot and bubbling.

9. Add Parmesan cheese

Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the mashed potatoes for a golden finish. Broil for 3–5 minutes more, until lightly golden on top.

10 Serve & Garnish

Garnish with fresh coriander or parsley before serving.

· Prep Time: 20 minutes
· Cook Time: 25 minutes
· Total Time: 45 minutes

· Large skillet
· Large pot
· Potato masher
· Wooden spoon
· Glass baking dish or Pyrex dish
· Knife & cutting board

· Traditional Shepherd’s Pie is often made with lamb, while beef creates a more budget-friendly cottage pie version.
· Add 1 tbsp flour before the broth if you want a thicker filling.
· Cheddar cheese can be used instead of Parmesan for a richer topping.
· Sweet potatoes can replace white potatoes for a slightly sweeter variation.
· Frozen mixed vegetables make this recipe quick and easy, but fresh vegetables also work well.

· Refrigerator: Up to 4 days.
· Freezer: Up to 2 months.
· Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

• Rich and hearty comfort food
• Perfect for colder weather
• Great for leftovers and meal prep
• Family friendly and filling
• Easy to customize with beef or lamb

You may also enjoy our 20 Min Chilean Beef Empanada with sauce, try the Beginner’s Teriyaki Chicken , or go for a Creamy Roasted Tomato Penne.