Some dishes just feel like home, no matter whose table you’re sitting at. Shepherd’s pie is one of those classics: humble ingredients, big comfort, and the kind of meal that brings people together without any fuss. (just remember if you’re using all ground beef, call it Cottage Pie – lesson learned the hard way!)

This version is rich and savory, packed with vegetables, and finished with a creamy mashed potato topping that turns beautifully golden in the oven. It’s a perfect make-ahead option for entertaining, family dinners, or anytime you want something cozy that feeds a crowd and leaves you with leftovers (a small gift to future you).

Let’s Cook!

1. Make the meat layer

• Sauté onion + carrots in butter/oil
• Add garlic
• Add beef, browning brown well
• Stir in tomato paste
• Sprinkle flour over meat; cook 1 min
• Add broth, Worcestershire, thyme, rosemary
• Stir until thickened
• Add peas
• Season to taste
• Transfer to a baking dish

2. Make the mash

• Boil potatoes until tender
• Mash with butter, milk/cream, sour cream, garlic powder
• Season well
• Spread over meat layer

3. Bake

• 400°F for 25–30 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden and edges are bubbling.

To make in advance: Once you assemble the pie, cover tightly and refrigerate. On baking day, let the casserole dish come to room temperature for about 30-45 minutes. Bake as above!

It’s a great dish to serve a crowd. This recipe will feed 8 to 10 hearty appetites and still leave you with a little leftover goodness. Cozy, comforting, and full of savory flavor, it’s always a hit at the table.

What’s your go-to meal to make ahead dish for entertaining? Let us know so we can try too!

Eat well friends!

Before you go—come join me at the table! Gather & Savor is my laid-back Substack where I share the recipes, stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and seasonal favorites that make life delicious. I’d love to have you join me there. Take a look and subscribe!