Cheesy Beef & Mashed Potato Casserole (Shepherd’s Pie Style)

History

Shepherd’s Pie originated in the late 1700s in the United Kingdom, particularly in Ireland and Northern England. Traditionally, it was made with lamb (“shepherds” → lamb), while Cottage Pie was made with beef. Over time, both names became interchangeable, especially in the U.S. Today, casseroles like the one in your photo combine classic mashed potatoes, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese—making it a comfort food loved worldwide.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Beef Layer:

• 1 ½ lbs (700 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (or 2 fresh tomatoes chopped)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for cooking

For the Mashed Potato Layer:

• 6 medium potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup milk (or heavy cream for richer flavor)
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Peel and cut potatoes into cubes.
2. Boil in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef; cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.

3. Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly.
3. Layer mashed potatoes over the beef.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top.

4. Bake

1. Place casserole in oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. For a golden top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

5. Serve

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with parsley or chives if desired.

Nutritional Benefits (per serving, approx. 400–450 calories)

• Protein-rich from beef and cheese for muscle health.
• Carbohydrates from potatoes provide energy.
• Calcium from cheese helps bone strength.
• Vitamins & minerals from tomatoes, onions, and potatoes (Vitamin C, potassium, folate).
• Comfort food factor: hearty, filling, and satisfying for family meals.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef & Mashed Potato Casserole is a modern twist on the classic Shepherd’s Pie. It blends the comforting flavors of creamy mashed potatoes, savory beef, and gooey melted cheese into one dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cold evenings, it’s a recipe that combines tradition with indulgence.