Cast Iron Shepherd’s Pie – Hearty, Rustic, and Comforting

This Cast Iron Shepherd’s Pie is a warm and satisfying dish that brings classic comfort food to your table in a lighter, more mindful way. Tender ground beef and vegetables are simmered in a savory sauce and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, all baked to golden perfection in a single cast iron skillet. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, it’s a one-pan meal that delivers rich flavor and homey charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Skillet Wonder – Minimal cleanup thanks to cast iron convenience.
Wholesome Ingredients – Packed with lean protein and plenty of veggies.
Golden, Creamy Topping – Lightened-up mashed potatoes with all the comfort you crave.
Perfect for Weeknights – Simple to make, yet impressive to serve.

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup frozen peas
• ½ cup diced onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the potato topping:

• 3 cups cooked and mashed potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
• 2 tbsp light butter
• ¼ cup skim milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add onion, carrots, and garlic; sauté for 4–5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in peas and remove from heat.

2. Make the Potato Topping
In a bowl, mash the cooked potatoes with light butter, skim milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble the Pie
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Use a fork to create texture on top for a rustic look.

4. Bake and Serve
Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 290
Protein: 20g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 4g

Tips for Success

• Use Lean Meat – Lean beef or turkey keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Smooth or Rustic? – Mash the potatoes creamy-smooth or leave them slightly chunky for texture.
• Add Herbs – Fresh parsley or chives make a beautiful garnish before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

Cooking the shepherd’s pie entirely in a cast iron skillet means fewer dishes and maximum flavor, as the skillet retains heat and browns beautifully. The hearty filling and creamy potatoes satisfy cravings for comfort food in a balanced, approachable way.

This Cast Iron Shepherd’s Pie brings together everything you love about classic comfort food — a savory filling, creamy potatoes, and a golden finish — all in one simple, rustic skillet. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day, it’s a wholesome and heartwarming dish you’ll want to make again and again.