Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and hearty dish that combines tender meat, fresh veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes all in one pot. It’s easy and perfect for a cozy meal!
This dish is like a big hug on a plate! I love how I can just toss everything in the Crockpot and forget about it—great for busy days. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot dinner? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use ground beef for this dish, but if you’d like the traditional version, ground lamb works great! For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted.
Mashed Potatoes: You can use store-bought mashed potatoes for convenience or whip up your own. For a healthier option, consider cauliflower mash for a low-carb version.
Vegetables: If you’re missing any vegetables, feel free to swap in whatever you have on hand—zucchini or green beans would also work well in this mix!
Herbs: Fresh herbs add a wonderful flavor! If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, use those instead of dried, but you can double the amount if using fresh.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie?
To really develop the flavors, browning the ground beef before adding it to the crockpot is essential. It enhances the taste and gives a nice texture. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet, as they add depth to the dish.
- Cook until the meat is well-browned before transferring it to the crockpot.
- Layer your vegetables in the order you add them for even cooking. The harder vegetables, like carrots, should be at the bottom.
Lastly, don’t rush the slow cooking. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Remember, low and slow is key to great results!
Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (or lamb for a more traditional shepherd’s pie)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then about 6-8 hours of cooking on low (or 3-4 hours on high). It’s perfect for busy days—just prep it in the morning and let the Crockpot do the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat before transferring the meat to the crockpot. This step adds great flavor!
2. Add the Vegetables:
Now, toss in the diced onions, minced garlic, chopped carrots, frozen peas, and corn to the crockpot. Give everything a good stir to mix it well.
3. Combine the Flavors:
Next, stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyms, rosemary, salt, and pepper into the mixture. Make sure everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
5. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, prepare your mashed potatoes if you haven’t done so already. If you’re using store-bought, just heat them up according to the package directions.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Once the slow cooking is done, spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly on top of the meat and vegetable mixture in the crockpot.
7. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re a cheese lover, now’s the time to sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes for an extra creamy topping!
8. Cook Again:
Cover the crockpot once more, cooking on high for another 20-30 minutes. This allows the mashed potatoes to heat through and the cheese to melt.
9. Get a Golden Crust (Optional):
If you’d like a crispy top, use a kitchen torch or place the crockpot insert under the broiler for a few minutes (if your crockpot insert is oven-safe) to achieve a golden-brown crust on the mashed potatoes.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Lastly, sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top before serving. Enjoy this cozy, comforting meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef! Just remember to thaw it first. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Make sure to brown it before adding it to the crockpot!
Can I Make This Shepherd’s Pie Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or a plant-based ground meat. Just ensure to add some extra seasoning to enhance the flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat servings in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If it seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating!
Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe! Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to hold the extra ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so check for tenderness of the vegetables. Enjoy the leftovers!