This Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and cozy dish, perfect for chilly days! With hearty ground meat, sweet veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a true comfort food.
The slow cooker does all the work while you relax. Just toss everything in and let it bubble away. I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color—so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Lamb: Both meat options work well, but I often choose ground beef for its flavor and accessibility. If you want a lighter option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead!
Mixed Vegetables: I love using a frozen mix for convenience, but you could also chop fresh carrots, peas, and corn. For a twist, add mushrooms or green beans if you have them on hand.
Mashed Potatoes: Store-bought mashed potatoes save time, but homemade ones feel cozier. You can swap with sweet potatoes for a different flavor or use cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is great, but feel free to experiment! Other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda can add a fun twist.
What’s the Best Way to Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot?
Layering is key to even cooking and flavor distribution in your Shepherd’s Pie. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with the cooked meat mixture at the bottom. This keeps it moist.
- Add the mixed vegetables on top of the meat. They’ll steam and get tender during cooking.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top to create a sealing layer. It helps keep everything warm and delicious!
This method ensures all the flavors meld perfectly and gives you that lovely, comforting bite every time!
Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef or ground lamb
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups prepared mashed potatoes (about 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cooked)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This comforting dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 6 to 8 hours to cook on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high). Plus, undisturbed cooking means you can enjoy your day while it works its magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or lamb and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep it nice and hearty without being greasy.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the cooked meat. Let them cook together for about 2-3 minutes until the onion turns soft and fragrant. This will make your dish extra flavorful!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer the meat mixture into your crockpot. Stir in the mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and evenly coated with the sauces and spices.
4. Cook Low & Slow:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking will let all the flavors blend together perfectly, and the vegetables will become tender.
5. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, take your prepared mashed potatoes and spread them evenly over the meat and vegetable layer in the crockpot. This creates a wonderful topping that’s creamy and delightful!
6. Add Cheese for Extra Flavor:
Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the mashed potatoes. This will melt beautifully and create a delicious cheesy crust on top.
7. Final Cooking:
Cover the crockpot again and switch to high for another 20-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the mashed potatoes are warmed through. This step is crucial for that gooey, comforting finish!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
When it’s done, give it a little sprinkle of fresh parsley for color, and it’s ready to serve. Scoop into bowls, and enjoy your hearty, comforting Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie with your loved ones!
Enjoy this hearty, comforting Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie! It’s sure to bring smiles around the dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly in this recipe. Just toss them in straight from the freezer without thawing. They’ll cook down nicely during the slow cooking process.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply ensure that the beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free brands. There are great options available at most grocery stores!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to the freezer!
Can I Prepare This Dish the Night Before?
Yes! You can assemble everything in the crockpot and keep it in the fridge overnight. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to prevent any temperature shock to the crockpot.