Name: Skillet Shepherd’s Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs ground lamb or beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp fresh or 1/3 tsp dried rosemary; 1 tsp fresh or 1/3 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas (optional); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; For the Mashed Potatoes:; 2 lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 tbsp butter; 1/3 cup milk or cream; 1 egg yolk (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

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Skillet Shepherd’s Pie is my go-to when I want a cozy, homemade meal without a pile of dishes. This version of the classic comfort food is cooked entirely in one skillet—from the savory meat filling to the creamy mashed potato topping—then finished in the oven until perfectly golden. It’s hearty, delicious, and incredibly convenient.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it keeps everything simple and efficient. I cook the meat and vegetables, mash the potatoes, and bake it all in the same skillet, which saves me time and cleanup. The flavor is rich and satisfying, with tender meat, savory gravy, and fluffy mashed potatoes on top. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like something special.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meat Filling:

Ground lamb (or beef)
Onion, chopped
Carrot, diced
Garlic, minced
Tomato paste
Worcestershire sauce
Fresh or dried thyme
Fresh or dried rosemary
Beef or chicken broth
Frozen peas (optional)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

For the Mashed Potatoes:

Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Butter
Milk or cream
Egg yolk (optional)
Salt and pepper

directions

I start by boiling the potatoes in a pot of salted water until fork-tender. While they cook, I work on the meat filling.
In an oven-safe skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion, carrot, and garlic until softened.
I add the ground meat, season it with salt, pepper, and herbs, and cook until browned.
I stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, then pour in the broth and simmer until the mixture thickens slightly. I fold in the frozen peas at the end.
Once the potatoes are tender, I mash them with butter, warm milk, salt, and an egg yolk for extra richness.
I spread the mashed potatoes over the meat filling in the skillet, using a fork to create ridges on top.
I bake the whole skillet at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. It takes about 20 minutes of prep and 25 minutes to bake, making the total time around 45 minutes.

Variations

I use ground turkey or chicken when I want a leaner version.
I sometimes mix in corn or green beans along with the peas.
For extra flavor, I add a splash of red wine while simmering the meat.
I top the mashed potatoes with grated cheese for a cheesy crust.
For a low-carb twist, I use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers right in the skillet if it fits in the fridge, or I transfer them to an airtight container. It keeps for up to 4 days. I reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave portions for convenience. It also freezes well—just cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use a regular pan instead of a skillet?

If I don’t have an oven-safe skillet, I cook the filling in a pan, then transfer everything to a baking dish before adding the potatoes and baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it earlier in the day and refrigerate until I’m ready to bake. It might need a few extra minutes in the oven when cold.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

I prefer peeling them for a smooth mash, but if I use Yukon golds with thin skins, I sometimes leave them on for more texture.

Can I skip the egg yolk in the mashed potatoes?

Absolutely. It’s optional and just adds richness and color. The mashed potatoes are still great without it.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as I use gluten-free broth and check that the Worcestershire sauce doesn’t contain gluten, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Skillet Shepherd’s Pie is one of my favorite ways to serve up comfort with less mess. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make all in one pan. Whether I’m feeding the whole family or cooking just for myself with leftovers to spare, this recipe always delivers that cozy, home-cooked satisfaction.