Could I switch out instant mashed potatoes for homemade ones?

Of course! Use whatever mashed potatoes you prefer: fresh, leftovers, or deli-made. If starting from scratch, boil four large russets.

Are there other veggies that work besides frozen mixed ones?

Sure! Use frozen peas and carrots, corn, green beans, or even fresh veggies. Just sauté them first if they're fresh.

Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Yep! Put the whole thing together, then keep it in the fridge for up to a day. Just bake it when ready, adding 10-15 minutes as needed.

Why swap out traditional gravy for tomato soup?

Tomato soup makes this dish super simple and adds a flavor kids love. You skip the trouble of making homemade gravy!

What should I do with leftovers?

Cover and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or warm the dish in the oven at 350°F until hot.

Delicious Shepherd's Pie

Category: Meals for Every Occasion

Ground beef and frozen veggies in tomato soup topped with cheesy mashed potatoes. Feeds 8 and takes under an hour.

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By Ana

Updated on Mon, 23 Jun 2025 12:46:30 GMT

Ground Beef Shepherd's Pie with Cheese | homebitesbyana.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Could I switch out instant mashed potatoes for homemade ones?: Of course! Use whatever mashed potatoes you prefer: fresh, leftovers, or deli-made. If starting from scratch, boil four large russets.
→ Are there other veggies that work besides frozen mixed ones?: Sure! Use frozen peas and carrots, corn, green beans, or even fresh veggies. Just sauté them first if they're fresh.
→ Is it possible to make this ahead of time?: Yep! Put the whole thing together, then keep it in the fridge for up to a day. Just bake it when ready, adding 10-15 minutes as needed.
→ Why swap out traditional gravy for tomato soup?: Tomato soup makes this dish super simple and adds a flavor kids love. You skip the trouble of making homemade gravy!
→ What should I do with leftovers?: Cover and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or warm the dish in the oven at 350°F until hot.

Simple Shepherd's Pie

A family favorite featuring simple ingredients like tomato soup and instant mashed potatoes. Quick and picky eater approved.

Prep Time

20 min

Cooking Time

30 min

Total Time

50 min

By: Ana

Category: Lunch & Dinner

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yields: 8 Servings (1 big casserole)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients

→ Mashed potato layer

01 1/2 (13 oz) package of instant mashed potato mix

02 Milk, salt, and butter as per the instructions on the mashed potato box

→ Meat and veggie base

03 1 lb of ground beef

04 1 (12 oz) pack of frozen mixed veggies

05 1 can (10.75 oz) of tomato soup

06 1 packet (1.5 oz) of beef stew spice mix

07 1/2 cup of water

08 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese

Steps

Step 01

Turn your oven on to 400°F. Follow the package steps to make your mashed potatoes. Use half of a 13 oz box, or a bit more if you'd like thicker layers.

Step 02

Brown the ground beef in a big pan over medium heat until it's fully done. Pour out any grease left in the pan.

Step 03

Into the cooked beef, toss in frozen vegetables, tomato soup, the beef seasoning packet, and the water. Let it simmer gently for 5-10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 04

In a greased 9x13 pan, spread out the ground beef mix evenly. Spoon the prepared mashed potatoes on top and smooth them out.

Step 05

Scatter the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is golden on top.

Step 06

Allow the dish to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This makes slicing and serving much simpler.

Notes

Mashed potatoes can come from a box, be homemade, store-bought, or leftovers—any kind works.
If you want fresh mashed potatoes, peel and boil 4 large russet potatoes.
Chopping and sautéing an onion to mix with the beef adds extra flavor if your family goes for onions.
This dish works great for meal prep! You can make it early and reheat later.