Shepherd’s Pie Soup is a warm, hearty dish that brings all the comforting flavors of a classic shepherd’s pie into a cozy bowl. Think tender ground beef, soft potatoes, sweet carrots, and peas all simmered together with rich broth and a touch of herbs. This soup hits that perfect spot when you’re craving something filling but easy to eat.
I love making this soup on chilly evenings because it reminds me of the way my family would gather around the table for a big shepherd’s pie dinner. Turning those same flavors into a soup feels like a little hug from the inside. Plus, it’s pretty simple to whip up, and I usually keep some mashed potatoes ready to stir in at the end for that creamy texture that everyone loves.
My favorite way to serve Shepherd’s Pie Soup is with a slice of crusty bread right on the side—great for dipping and soaking up every last bit. It’s a wonderful meal for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without a lot of fuss. I’m always surprised at how many friends ask me for the recipe after just one bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the main protein and gives the soup its hearty flavor. You can swap it with ground lamb for a more traditional shepherd’s pie taste or use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Vegetables (onion, carrot, celery): These form the flavor base. If you don’t have celery, try adding bell peppers or mushrooms for extra depth.
Tomato paste & Worcestershire sauce: These add rich umami notes. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can work well.
Mashed potatoes: This tops the soup and adds creaminess. Use store-bought mashed potatoes or leftovers if you prefer a quick version. Adding butter and cream makes them extra smooth.
Frozen peas: They bring a pop of color and subtle sweetness. You can substitute with green beans or corn if needed.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Mashed Potato Topping?
The mashed potatoes are the cozy crown of this soup, so making them creamy and smooth is key.
- Boil peeled potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain well and mash while still hot.
- Add butter and warm milk or cream little by little, stirring until you reach your preferred creamy texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- If using a broiler or kitchen torch to brown the top, spread mashed potatoes evenly and watch closely to avoid burning—it only takes a minute or two!
This topping adds a warm, velvety finish that’s both comforting and visually appealing. You can also stir some shredded cheese into the potatoes for an extra twist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning meat and simmering the soup evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps you stir the ingredients without scratching your pot.
- Potato masher – makes quick work of turning boiled potatoes into smooth mashed potatoes.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for adding the right amount of broth, spices, and tomato paste.
- Oven-safe bowls or casserole dish – lets you brown the mashed potato topping under the broiler if you like.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground lamb for a more classic shepherd’s pie flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky twist that deepens the soup’s richness.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes for a creamy, cheesy topping.
- Include chopped mushrooms with the vegetables for an earthy taste and extra texture.
How to Make Delicious Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Mashed Potato Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 4-5 medium potatoes)
- 2 tbsp butter (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of prep and 25-30 minutes of cooking time, including simmering the soup and preparing mashed potatoes. If you choose to brown the mashed potato topping under the broiler, add a few extra minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Vegetables and Meat:
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Adding Flavors and Simmering:
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to blend the flavors. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for 15 minutes, letting the vegetables soften and flavors meld.
3. Final Touches and Serving:
Add the frozen peas and simmer an additional 5 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare your mashed potatoes by boiling peeled potatoes until tender, then mashing them with butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper until creamy. To serve, ladle soup into oven-safe bowls or a casserole dish, then spoon mashed potatoes evenly on top. If you like, brown the mashed potato topping under the broiler or with a kitchen torch for a classic look. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and enjoy your cozy meal with crusty bread.
Can I Use Frozen Mashed Potatoes for This Soup?
Yes, frozen mashed potatoes work well as a shortcut! Just thaw them completely and warm slightly before spreading on top of the soup. This saves time without sacrificing creaminess.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Shepherd’s Pie Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup in Advance?
Definitely! Prepare the soup base and mashed potatoes separately, then refrigerate. When ready, reheat the soup and top with mashed potatoes before serving. Browning the topping can be done just before eating.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
You can use ground lamb for a traditional twist, or ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the meat is browned and cooked through.
