Shepherd’s Pie with creamy macaroni

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Skill Level: Moderate
Cuisine: American comfort with British influence
Category: Main Course / Casserole

 Ingredients

 For the Shepherd’s Pie Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ lbs ground beef or lamb

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)

• 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots mix (or diced fresh)

• ½ cup beef or chicken broth

• Salt & pepper to taste

 For the Creamy Mac & Cheese:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or small shells)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• ¼ tsp mustard powder (optional, for tang)

• Pinch of paprika (for color)

 Optional Toppings:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• Extra shredded cheese for the top

 Time & Difficulty

 How to Make Shepherd’s Pie with Mac & Cheese

 Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.

4. Add ground meat, season with salt & pepper, and cook until browned.

5. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire, thyme, and cook for 1–2 minutes.

6. Add peas and carrots, followed by broth. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Transfer mixture to a large 9×13″ casserole dish or deep baking dish.

 Step 2: Make the Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

1. Cook macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.

3. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute to make a roux.

4. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).

5. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella (optional), mustard powder, and paprika.

6. Season with salt & pepper to taste.

7. Fold in the drained macaroni until fully coated.

 Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Spread the meat filling evenly in the baking dish.

2. Spoon the creamy mac and cheese on top. Smooth with a spatula.

3. (Optional) Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle over mac and cheese for a crispy topping.

4. Top with a little extra cheese, if desired.

 Step 4: Bake & Serve

1. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

2. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end to crisp the top if needed (watch carefully!).

3. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to help everything set.

 Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli

• Serve with buttered rolls or garlic bread

• Great as a standalone casserole for a potluck or dinner party

 Storage & Make-Ahead

 Approximate Nutrition (per serving)

Nutrition will vary based on ingredients and substitutions.