Shepherd’s Pie Soup: A Cozy, Family-Friendly Comfort Food

If you love the rich, hearty flavors of Shepherd’s Pie, but want something warm and spoonable, this Shepherd’s Pie Soup is for you. It takes everything you adore about the classic dish—savory ground meat, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes—and transforms it into a satisfying, easy-to-make soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or when you need a little cozy comfort in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup—always a win.
• Easier Than Traditional Shepherd’s Pie: No baking required.
• Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters love this creamy, meaty goodness.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.

If you love hearty soups, you’ll also want to try my Beef Barley Soup, another comforting favorite.

Ingredients for Shepherd’s Pie Soup

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt to taste

How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

4. Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
5. Pour in beef broth, water, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Love one-pot meals? Check out my Dump-and-Bake Meatball Casserole for an effortless, family-friendly dinner.

Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes

7. While the soup simmers, mash the boiled potatoes with butter and milk until smooth.
8. Season with salt and mix in cheddar cheese if desired.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

9. Ladle the soup into bowls.
10. Spoon mashed potatoes on top or use a piping bag for a decorative touch.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese, if desired.

Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie Soup

• Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: Saves time and cuts down on waste.
• Adjust the Thickness: Add more broth for a thinner soup or simmer longer for a thicker texture.
• Enhance the Flavor: Sautéing the tomato paste deepens the taste.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for lentils and use vegetable broth.
• Herb Lovers: Add rosemary or parsley for extra depth.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use almond milk and vegan butter for the mashed potatoes.

Want more cozy soup ideas? My Chicken Pot Pie Soup delivers all the creamy comfort of a classic without the crust.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread for dipping.
• Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Top with freshly cracked black pepper for a little extra kick.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Freezing Tip: Freeze the soup base without mashed potatoes. Make fresh mashed potatoes when reheating for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Nutritional Benefits

• Potatoes: A great source of potassium and energy.
• Ground Meat: Packed with protein for muscle growth and repair.
• Vegetables: Provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

For another comforting, vegetable-packed meal, try my Classic Vegetable Soup—it’s delicious any time of year.

Final Thoughts

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a warm, comforting twist on a classic that’s easy to make and full of hearty flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to be a hit.

Looking for more comfort food recipes? Follow me on Pinterest and save this recipe for later!

For an effortless, family-friendly dinner, you might also enjoy my Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole.

Conclusion

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a comforting and innovative way to enjoy the flavors of a classic dish. Easy to make and packed with hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite for cozy nights and family dinners.

Discover more comfort food recipes in this collection of hearty soups and stews. Enjoy creating and savoring this delicious meal!

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