Easy Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 2 large carrots ((peeled and finely chopped))
• 2 ribs celery ((finely chopped))
• 1 medium onion ((finely chopped))
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 2 cloves garlic ((finely minced))
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1½ cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 pounds russet or golden potatoes, peeled and cut into ½" pieces ( (about 6 medium))
• ⅓ cup milk ((plus more if desired))
• 6 tablespoons salted butter ((divided))
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large oven-safe skillet (about 3 quarts or 12" diameter), heat the oil over medium-high heat. (If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, simply transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish before topping with the potatoes.)

2. 2

   Add the carrots, celery, and onion and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until the onion is softened and the carrots are almost tender. Stir in the salt, garlic, and pepper and cook for 1 minute.

3. 3

   Add the beef and cook, stirring, until completely browned, about 3 to 4 minutes.

4. 4

   In a small bowl, whisk together the broth and cornstarch. Add to the skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan.

5. 5

   Stir in the peas, corn, ketchup, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the sauce is slightly thickened and the vegetables are completely tender.

6. 6

   Taste and adjust to your preferences. Set aside.

7. 7

   --- Mashed Potatoes ---

8. 8

   Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Salt well and bring to a boil over high heat. Boil for 10 to 12 minutes, until tender.

9. 9

   Drain the potatoes. Add the ⅓ cup milk, 4 tablespoons of the butter, salt, parsley, and pepper and mash until smooth. Adjust to your tastes, adding more milk if necessary to reach a smooth consistency.

10. 10

    --- Assembly ---

11. 11

    Preheat the oven to 375°F.

12. 12

    Spread the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture in the skillet.

13. 13

    Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and brush it over the top of the potatoes.

14. 14

    Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until light golden brown and heated through.