Can I use homemade mashed potatoes instead of boxed?

Yes, Lazy Shepherd's Pie tastes wonderful with homemade mashed potatoes. Use about four large russet potatoes, then cook, mash, and season them with butter, milk, and salt. Leftover mashed potatoes also work well.

Can I prepare Lazy Shepherd's Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake it at 400°F until the cheese melts and the filling bubbles.

Can I freeze this ground beef casserole?

Yes, Lazy Shepherd's Pie freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly, and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

What vegetables work best in Lazy Shepherd's Pie?

Frozen mixed vegetables work best because they usually include peas, carrots, corn, and green beans. You can also use peas, carrots, corn, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, cheddar cheese gives Lazy Shepherd's Pie classic flavor, but Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, mozzarella, or a cheddar blend also melt well.

Lazy Shepherd's Pie: Amazing 30-Minute Easy Family Dinner Recipe

Description

This Lazy Shepherd’s Pie is a quick and easy family dinner made with seasoned ground beef, mixed vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese. It uses simple pantry ingredients, comes together with very little effort, and makes the perfect comforting meal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1/2 (13-ounce) box instant mashed potatoes
Butter, milk, and salt as directed on the package
1 pound ground beef
1 (12-ounce) bag frozen mixed vegetables
1 (10.75-ounce) can tomato soup
1 (1.5-ounce) packet beef stew seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Prepare the mashed potatoes according to the package directions.
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat and drain the grease.
Stir in the tomato soup, frozen vegetables, beef stew seasoning, and water.
Simmer the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes.
Spread the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the beef layer.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Homemade, leftover, boxed, or refrigerated mashed potatoes all work well.
About four large russet potatoes equal the amount of mashed potatoes needed.
Add sautéed onion before browning the beef if your family enjoys extra flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Freeze the assembled casserole for up to three months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 395
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 920mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 70mg