Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie

My Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie takes a classic comfort food and makes it completely hands-off. The savory beef filling slow cooks in a rich, herby gravy, then gets topped with creamy mashed potatoes right in the crockpot. With store-bought mashed potatoes and frozen veggies, there’s no peeling, no boiling, and no extra pans to wash.

 

My Easy Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie was one of the very first recipes I ever learned to make, and my traditional shepherd’s pie is still one of my most popular recipes on the blog.

I created this crockpot version to be a little more hands off for your busy days. You brown the beef, stir everything together in the slow cooker, and let it do the work. It has all the cozy, savory flavor of the original with a fraction of the hands-on time.

For more delicious slow cooker recipes, check out my Crockpot White Queso, Slow Cooker Creamy Italian Chicken, Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, Slow Cooker Gyros, and Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup.

What Sets My Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie Apart

• Slow-simmered filling – the beef cooks low and slow in beef stock, tomato paste, and fresh herbs, so every bite is rich and full of flavor.
• Built-in thickener – a sprinkle of flour turns the stock into a hearty gravy as it cooks, so the filling is never soupy.
• No-fuss topping – refrigerated mashed potatoes spread right over the top, so you skip the peeling, boiling, and mashing.

Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie Ingredients

• Ground beef – a hearty filling that feeds a crowd. 
• Vegetable oil – for browning the beef in the skillet.
• Onion – adds sweetness and depth as it softens in the slow cooker.
• Tomato paste – gives the gravy a rich, savory base.
• Garlic – minced garlic adds classic flavor.
• Fresh rosemary and thyme – these herbs give it that traditional shepherd’s pie taste.
• Salt and black pepper – to season the filling.
• Worcestershire sauce – adds a savory, tangy boost.
• Beef stock – the base of the gravy.
• Flour – thickens the filling as it cooks.
• Frozen mixed vegetables – adds color and nutrition with zero chopping.
• Refrigerated mashed potatoes – homemade works great too.

Substitutions or Variations

• No fresh herbs? Use 1/3 teaspoon each of dried rosemary and thyme.
• Prefer a cheesy topping? Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the potatoes during the last 30 minutes.
• Want more veggies? Add diced carrots or celery with the onion.

How to Make Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie

1. Brown the beef. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain the excess fat if needed. 
2. Mix the base. Add the onion, tomato paste, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and beef stock to the crockpot. Stir to combine. 
3. Add the beef and flour. Add the cooked beef and sprinkle the flour over the top. Stir until fully incorporated. 

4. Slow cook. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours. 
5. Add the veggies and potatoes. Stir in the frozen vegetables, then spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top. 
6. Finish cooking. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes, until heated through. Serve warm. 

What to Serve with Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie

This is a full meal on its own, but a simple side like my side salad or dinner rolls rounds it out nicely.

Crockpot Shepherd’s Pie FAQs

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

Traditional shepherd’s pie is made with lamb, while cottage pie is made with beef. In the US, most people call both versions shepherd’s pie.

Can I use homemade mashed potatoes?

Yes! Homemade mashed potatoes work perfectly. Use about 3 cups to cover the top.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes. Brown the beef and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, add everything to the crockpot and follow the recipe as written.

Can I cook it on high?

Yes. Cook the filling on high for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, then add the veggies and potatoes and cook 30 more minutes.