Simple Shepherd's Pie (Printable Version)

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

# 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:

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.
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.
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.
04 - In a greased 9x13 pan, spread out the ground beef mix evenly. Spoon the prepared mashed potatoes on top and smooth them out.
05 - Scatter the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is golden on top.
06 - Allow the dish to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This makes slicing and serving much simpler.

# Notes:

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