Zippy Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Name: Zippy Shepherd's Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1 tablespoon canola oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1 (14 ounce) can beef broth; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon mild curry powder; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tomatoes, coarsely chopped; 1 (16 ounce) package frozen mixed peas and carrots; 0.25 cup milk; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 cup shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese; salt and pepper to taste

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

1 pound potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 pound ground beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 (14 ounce) can beef broth
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mild curry powder
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tomatoes, coarsely chopped
1 (16 ounce) package frozen mixed peas and carrots
cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

Step 2: While the potatoes are boiling, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef with onion, red bell pepper, and garlic until the beef is evenly browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Step 3: Stir in the beef broth, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and curry powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to form a paste. Stir this paste into the skillet along with the chopped tomatoes, peas, and carrots. Cook until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Spoon the meat and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish and set aside.

Step 6: Preheat your oven with the broiler setting on. Add milk and butter to the cooked potatoes and whip until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the meat mixture in the casserole dish. Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 8: Place the casserole under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 493
Total Fat: 31g (40% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 13g (66% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 90mg (30% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1094mg (48% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 32g (12% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 6g (20% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 6g
Protein: 24g (47% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 57mg (63% Daily Value)
Calcium: 204mg (16% Daily Value)
Iron: 3mg (19% Daily Value)
Potassium: 925mg (20% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

History and Origins: Shepherd's Pie, also known as "Cottage Pie" when made with beef instead of lamb, is a traditional British dish with roots dating back to the late 18th century. The concept of covering a meat filling with mashed potatoes originated in Ireland, where potatoes were a staple food and a cost-effective way to stretch meals. Shepherds Pie was originally created as a way to use leftover meat from Sunday roasts, making it a practical, budget-friendly dish. The addition of curry powder in this particular recipe gives it a unique twist that reflects modern culinary experimentation, adding a "zippy" flavor to the traditional comfort food.

Regional Variations: While the classic Shepherds Pie is associated with British and Irish cuisine, different regions have their own variations of this dish. For example, in the UK, the traditional filling includes lamb, and in Ireland, it is often made with beef, which is more common. American versions might use ground turkey or chicken, and sometimes a mix of vegetables such as corn, peas, and carrots. The inclusion of curry powder in this recipe is a nod to the growing trend of fusion cuisine, particularly in countries with a rich history of Indian influence on Western food, such as the United Kingdom. Adding curry is a creative way to elevate the dish with a flavorful spice profile.

Distinguishing Features: What sets this "Zippy" Shepherds Pie apart from traditional versions is the addition of curry powder, which imparts a distinctive tangy and savory kick to the meat filling. Typically, Shepherds Pie relies on herbs and savory seasonings such as rosemary or thyme, but the curry powder introduces an exciting complexity. Moreover, the use of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup adds a deeper umami layer that differentiates it from more traditional recipes. The top layer of mashed potatoes, combined with sharp cheddar cheese, creates a creamy contrast to the spiced meat mixture beneath it, making this version stand out with a more bold and dynamic flavor profile.

Where Its Typically Served: Shepherds Pie is a beloved comfort food and is commonly served in home kitchens across the UK, Ireland, and North America. It is especially popular for family dinners or gatherings, and its a go-to dish for using up leftovers. In pubs and casual restaurants, particularly in the UK and Ireland, you will often find variations of Shepherds Pie on the menu, especially during colder months. The dish is hearty and filling, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. In North America, it has gained popularity as a quick and easy weeknight meal, often adapted to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian versions.

Interesting Facts: 1. The term Shepherds Pie only applies to pies made with lamb, while Cottage Pie is the proper name for versions made with beef. The distinction between the two terms has been largely blurred in modern culinary usage. 2. The addition of curry powder in this dish is a modern twist, often associated with the "curried" dishes of the British colonial era, especially when Indias influence on British food culture grew. 3. Shepherd's Pie is often considered a "leftovers" dish, as it was originally made to use up leftover meat, potatoes, and vegetables from earlier meals. 4. The dish has been adapted to many diets, with vegetarian, gluten-free, and even low-carb versions available by substituting meat with lentils, mashed cauliflower, or other alternatives. 5. In the United States, Shepherds Pie became a household staple after the potato famine of the mid-19th century, when potatoes were seen as a nutritious and affordable food.

FAQ about Zippy Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Leftover Zippy Shepherd's Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes until hot.

Yes, you can freeze Zippy Shepherd's Pie! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Yes, you can substitute the sharp cheddar with other cheeses such as mozzarella, Colby, or gouda. If you prefer a stronger flavor, blue cheese or Parmesan can also work well.

If you don't like curry, you can reduce the amount of curry powder or omit it entirely. The dish will still taste delicious with the other ingredients, like the Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce.

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with other meats like ground turkey, chicken, or lamb (for a more traditional Shepherd's Pie). The flavor will change slightly depending on the meat you choose.

To avoid a runny filling, make sure to cook the meat and vegetable mixture until the liquid has reduced and thickened. If it's still too runny, you can add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it further.

Yes, if you're in a hurry, you can use instant mashed potatoes instead of boiling and mashing fresh potatoes. However, using fresh potatoes will give a better texture and flavor to the dish.

Yes, you can prepare the meat filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, layer them in a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake as instructed.

Broiling the top is not mandatory, but it gives the cheese a golden and crispy texture that adds a nice touch to the dish. If you prefer a softer top, you can simply bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Absolutely! You can add extra vegetables such as peas, corn, green beans, or even mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the amount of broth and cornstarch accordingly to maintain the right consistency of the filling.

Comments

MrChicken

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

My loving wife complained from the first moment she heard the word "curry" until she was finished the 3rd bowl. If i would have told her the original recipe had ketchup in it, she would have freaked out! she mentioned that the curry was making her thirsty and sleepy. i prevailed, though, and kept a cool head the entire time. by the end of the night we both had several bowls full of this delightful dish, even my cat was licking the bowl clean!! and guess what? the cat didnt complain one bit. :D i would definitely make this again, only next time i will not mention any of the ingredients. i will simply put the plate in front of her mouth and say, "EAT!"

JMACKIE

03/19/2003 09:31:41 AM

The flavor in this pie was excellent. However, the whole can of beef broth in the mixture made it difficult to thicken, even with extra cornstarch. I would also increase the potatoes to 1 1/2 or 2 lbs. if you like a lot of potatoes. But I am definitely planning on making this again with half a can of broth.

Allrecipes Member

08/19/2002 07:22:04 AM

This recipe has excellent flavor and is easy to make. I agree with the other review, that the curry adds zip to recipe. I used sharp white cheddar for a good cheese flavor. It's a keeper!

sglasow

04/02/2010 08:54:34 AM

YUMMY! This recipe ROCKS. Made it pretty close to the original recipe. Omitted red bell pepper (didn't have). Used a can of drained diced tomatoes in place of the fresh. Left the skins on the potatoes and mashed them with extra milk and real butter. Instead of the cornstarch and water, I added a packet of brown gravy mix to the beef broth. For the vegetables I used frozen corn, peas, carrots and aspargus. I layered the bottom of the casserole dish with potatoes then the filling with another layer of potatoes on top. Used a combination of shredded colby and cheddar cheese for the topping. Baked at 30 minutes at 375 degrees. This was delish!!!

bignosekate

04/24/2010 11:05:14 PM

Lord have mercy this was good! I followed the recipe, except for substituting the "package" of peas & carrots for 1 can peas/carrots and 1 can creamed corn. I topped the beef/carrot mixture with the can of creamed corn once in the casserole dish, I didn't heat together in the skillet; The creamed corn tasted like heaven mixed with the saltiness from the Soy Sauce and tang from the Worcestershire. Do try! I had a similar dish at The Shed Brewery in Stowe, VT. However, they top theirs with Cabot Sharp White Cheddar. I recommend using this if you have access to it (in the specialty cheese section @ your grocery store). I ended up using medium cheddar and it was fabulous- but will definitely splurge next time on Cabot Sharp White Cheddar!

Linjoy

11/17/2006 10:22:25 PM

A favourite of my family. I prefer to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen and some extra potatoes. Also I add some extra cheese to the potatoes when mashed or some sour cream for extra flavour. A little parmesan cheese added to the other cheese before browning is great too.

Oh Mama

04/20/2010 12:35:04 PM

I thought this has potential and will try again with only 1/4 teaspoon curry. I lived in the Caribbean for 8 months where I acquired a taste for curry but my other 6 family members did not care for the curry taste even though I reduced it to 1/2 teaspoon. After reading other reviews, here's what I did: I used green pepper instead of red. I used 1 cup of defrosted frozen corn and 1 can of drained, cut green beans instead of peas and carrots. I omitted the tomato. The veggies as written, work fine but I was accommodating 2 family members preferences. When browning the meat, I added 1 more chopped garlic clove with the green pepper and large (12 ounce) chopped onion. I omitted the oil as it's unnecessary and spooned off the fat from the meat after browning, as it's unhealthy. I only used 1 cup of beef broth. I used 1 & 1/2 times the amount of Yukon Gold mashed potatoes & mixed it with the cheese. I cooked it for 25 minutes at 350 to marry flavours before broiling for 5 minutes, to brown.

Bubba's Mom

04/12/2008 05:02:39 PM

I made Shepherd's pie for my husband and 16 month old for the first time tonight using this recipe...they both loved it! I thought it was good too. I omitted the tomato and red pepper, because I did not have on hand, and added some precooked ground pork sausage. I put in the full amount of curry and thought it really added something to the dish. This was fairly easy, and very tasty. My husband had seconds and asked me to make it with double the meat next time (?) Not sure I will do that but at least he wants to have it again :-) Thanks for a great recipe!

wlcnjmc

01/09/2012 08:25:03 PM

This was so yummy and easy. I did change it up a bit. After I browned my beef with garlic and onion I drained off the oil, I omitted the bell pepper and added 1 can green beans and thinly sliced fresh carrots. I also did not have Worcestershire so I used A1 and I did not have curry so I used lawerys seasoning salt for added flavor. I used 1 can of drained diced tomatoes instead of fresh. I will be making this again and again. Thanks!!!

Jeni Michaels

11/23/2014 07:32:03 PM

This turned out really tasty! I followed the recipe pretty closely. I omitted the tomatoes altogether because I didn't have any, and we don't like cooked tomatoes much anyway. I know several other reviewers have said that it was too soupy with an entire can of broth, but I used a whole 14.5oz can of chicken broth (rather than beef) and it was fine, but maybe that's because I didn't have any added moisture from the tomatoes? This ended up being a much bigger pie than I expected, so I had to put it in a 13x9 pan because my casserole dishes were too small (I probably also used more mashed potatoes than the recipe) but all that really means is that I'll have leftovers for lunch tomorrow and that's okay with me. Also, I recommend baking it long enough to get it bubbly rather than just broiling for 3-5 min, but that's just personal preference. I served it to the kids after just broiling, but then when the hubby and I were ready to eat we baked it for about 20 min @ 350 degrees. I'll definitely make this again.

Kellie

01/16/2011 01:36:34 PM

Great Shepherd's Pie recipe, I suggest you half the entire recipe if you have a family of 4. We have soooo much left over, but oh well, I bet its good heated! I loved the curry and even added extra to suite my taste. I would DOUBLE the POTATOES! I had to cook more so the top of my 9 x 13 pan would be covered.

Kathrizinia

04/23/2025 10:18:41 PM

I hadn't made Shepherd's pie for years and this tasted delicious. I omitted the corn starch and only used half the can of beef broth, and omitted the curry. I put it in the oven for 20 minutes at 375 and it was perfect. I will definitely make this again.

RosySalt8137

04/21/2025 12:00:53 PM

Full of flavour yet simple to make. I omit the tomatoes because they make it too runny. Once it was made, I warmed it in the oven on low for over an hour and then put it on low broil once the cheese was added and it turned out the best ever.

FunkyBeef4277

03/10/2025 04:24:54 AM

Awesome just like it was, don't be weirded out by the curry, I used a tad less just to be sure, but it adds to the meat mixture brilliantly especially if you're just using regular ol chop meat. Very good solid recipe.

Mark Lee

01/24/2025 07:35:14 PM

It’s simple, quick, and tastes fantastic.

tewks

12/21/2024 06:02:10 PM

COTTAGE PIE!!!! Shepherds Pie is,and always has been, made only with LAMB!

gbob

10/24/2024 11:51:47 PM

We loved this and it will go into our dinner and pot luck rotation. The only change I made was to use mixed vegtables.

Rebecca Wright

03/26/2024 12:19:09 AM

Loved how quick it came together.

Brett Truss

02/13/2024 04:06:12 AM

didn't broil rather placed in oven for 25 mins and then broiled for addt 5 mins to crisp top and cheese

Johanna Alexander

01/30/2024 01:33:42 AM

It’s delicious. I only used 8 oz of beef broth and I didn’t have tomatoes so did not add them. Thank you for the recipe.

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Zippy Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

FAQ about Zippy Shepherd's Pie Recipe