Can you freeze shepherd’s pie after baking?

Absolutely! Freezing a fully baked shepherd’s pie recipe is a smart move. First, let the pie cool completely after baking. Then, cover it tightly with foil or move it into a freezer-safe container. It can stay frozen for up to two months without losing flavor. When you’re ready to dig in, bake it straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until it's heated through — usually about 45–60 minutes. So easy and so worth it!

What is the difference between shepherd’s pie and cottage pie?

Good question! The big difference comes down to the meat. A true shepherd’s pie recipe uses ground lamb — fitting, right? "Shepherd" and "sheep" go hand in hand! On the other hand, a cottage pie swaps lamb for ground beef. Both pies have that dreamy mashed potato topping, but the choice of meat gives each a slightly different flavor and feel.

How long does shepherd’s pie last in the fridge?

If you store your shepherd’s pie recipe properly, it can stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure you keep it in a tightly sealed container or wrap the dish well with plastic wrap or foil. When reheating, cover it with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. That way, the pie stays moist and delicious!

Best Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Description

This Best Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring savory ground lamb or beef with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a hearty family lunch or cozy gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground lamb or beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
1 cup frozen peas
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared separately)
2 tablespoons butter (for mashed potatoes)
1/4 cup whole milk (for mashed potatoes)
Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and carrots, sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add ground lamb or beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Drain excess fat if needed, then stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce.
Pour in beef broth, add thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes.
While the filling simmers, prepare mashed potatoes by mashing boiled potatoes with butter and milk until creamy.
Spread the meat filling evenly in a greased baking dish.
Top with mashed potatoes and smooth out the surface. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness if desired.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, use lentils and vegetable broth instead of meat and beef broth.
Swap lamb for beef if preferred for a different flavor.
Add shredded cheddar cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Category: Lunch, Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British, Irish

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: shepherd’s pie recipe, classic shepherd’s pie, easy shepherd’s pie, homemade shepherd’s pie, traditional shepherd’s pie, hearty dinner recipes, family casseroles