If there’s one comfort food that never goes out of style, it’s Garten Shepherd’s Pie and Ina Garten’s version inspired this cozy, flavorful recipe. My Garten Shepherd’s Pie brings all the charm of the original: savory beef and vegetables simmered in rich gravy, topped with buttery mashed potatoes, then baked until golden and bubbling.
The first time I made this, I wanted something classic but easy — the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I didn’t have lamb on hand (which is traditional), so I used ground beef and followed Garten’s layering method. When it came out of the oven, the kitchen smelled incredible — rich, buttery, and just a little nostalgic. Every bite was creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying.
Now, this Garten Shepherd’s Pie sits right alongside my French Onion Ground Beef and Beef Lombardi Casserole as one of our top cozy family dinners.
Garten Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add onion and carrots; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, then pour in beef broth. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened slightly. Stir in peas and corn, then remove from heat.
- Boil potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes or until tender. Drain, then mash with milk, cream, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spread the beef filling evenly in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading to cover completely. If desired, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before serving. Pair with bread or salad.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Garten Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavors — creamy mashed potatoes on top, rich meat and veggies underneath, all baked to golden comfort. It’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for guests, just like Ina Garten’s cooking style.
If you love hearty, classic recipes like my Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup or Creamy Beef Noodle Bake, this one’s going to feel right at home in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef or lamb
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon rosemary
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
If you love recipes with comforting layers like this, you’ll also adore my White Lasagna Soup — it has that same cozy balance of creamy and savory.
How to Make Garten Shepherd’s Pie
Step 1: Make the Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add onion and carrots; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, then pour in beef broth. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened slightly. Stir in peas and corn, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes or until tender. Drain, then mash with milk, cream, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spread the beef filling evenly in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading to cover completely. If desired, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before serving. Pair it with Christmas Bread Recipe or a side salad for a full comforting meal.
If you love simple dishes that feel special, this one shares the same heartwarming spirit as my Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
Tips for the Perfect Shepherd’s Pie
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes: They mash beautifully and create a creamy top layer.
- Thicken the filling: Let the sauce simmer until rich — that’s where the flavor comes alive.
- Add cheese: Cheddar adds a lovely crust when baked.
- Make ahead: Assemble it early and bake before serving.
These same tricks make my Marry Me Chicken Soup taste restaurant-quality every time — simple steps, big rewards.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes or until heated through.
Like my Pioneer Woman Loaded Potato Soup, this recipe tastes even better the next day — the flavors deepen beautifully.
Flavor Variations
- Classic Lamb Shepherd’s Pie: Use ground lamb for a traditional version.
- Cheesy Mash Topping: Mix cheddar or Gruyère into the potatoes.
- Vegetarian Version: Use lentils instead of meat.
- Cajun Twist: Add a little Cajun seasoning and swap peas for bell peppers.
If you love experimenting with comfort food classics, my Snow Day Soup gives the same creative satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the difference between Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie?
Shepherd’s Pie uses lamb, while Cottage Pie uses beef — both are delicious!
2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, in a pinch! Just make sure they’re seasoned well.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Use olive oil and non-dairy milk for the mash — it’s still creamy and rich.
4. Can I add gravy?
Absolutely — pour a little over the top before baking for a saucier version.
The Final Bite
This Garten Shepherd’s Pie is everything you love about comfort food — rich, hearty, and made with simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping for a cozy night in, this classic is guaranteed to warm hearts and fill bellies.
Serve it with No-Knead Dutch Oven Bread or roasted veggies for a complete meal that feels like a Sunday supper any night of the week.