Easy Shepherd’s Pie

This easy shepherd’s pie tastes like the traditional recipe but is simple to prep with ground beef, vegetables and tomato soup covered in mashed potatoes, topped with cheese and baked until golden.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read disclosure policy.

Shepherd’s Pie with Tomato Soup

When I think of comfort food, I immediately think of an easy shepherd’s pie or homemade pot pie. Both are warm, hearty and full of rich flavors. This recipe is a bit easier to whip up which makes it perfect for when you’re craving something comforting!

Shepherd’s pie with tomato soup is a family favorite! This isn’t your traditional recipe, but the version I made with my grandma as a little girl. I loved sneaking bites of the creamy mashed potatoes and remember her whispering “throw in more butter and cream.” ;)

Ingredients

• Meat: Ground beef (aka hamburger meat) gives this dish a hearty and delicious flavor. Ground lamb is traditional so use that if preferred!
• Veggies: This recipe calls for chopped onions and canned green beans. Feel free to add in other veggies like peas, corn or chopped carrots. I usually add in whichever veggies I have on hand to bulk it up a little more.
• Sauce: This is the main shortcut! Use a can of tomato soup in place of making a homemade sauce. It’s mixed with creole seasoning for extra flavor and adds the perfect thick consistency. Trust me, no one will know the difference!
• Potatoes: You can make homemade mashed potatoes, or use pre-made for convenience if you’re short on time.

How to Make Easy Shepherd’s Pie

1. Cook on skillet. Add ground beef and chopped onions to a large skillet and cook over medium heat until the meat has browned. Drain any excess grease.
2. Stir in vegetables. Stir in the creole, tomato soup and green beans. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

3. Assemble. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Then add a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.
4. Bake. Bake uncovered in the oven at 350°F until the cheese is bubbly, about 15 minutes.

Make Ahead + Freezing

• To make ahead: You can make this shepherd’s pie 1-2 days in advance if desired. Simply cook ingredients on the skillet (hamburger, onions, creole, tomato sauce, green beans) and pour in a baking dish. Let cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place in fridge. When ready to serve, top with mashed potatoes and shredded cheese if desired. Then bake uncovered in the oven until bubbly, about 15 to 20 minutes.
• To freeze: If you are planning on freezing this dish, I’d recommend baking it first prior to freezing. Simply bake uncovered in oven for 15 minutes, then let cool completely. Tightly wrap in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place in the freezer (make sure it’s level and laying flat). The shepherd’s pie can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake until bubbly and warmed throughout.

Other Comfort Food Recipes