There’s something wonderfully comforting about a hearty baked dish for dinner.
This ground turkey shepherd’s pie brings together a flavorful filling of turkey and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
It’s wholesome, simple to prepare, and perfect for a cozy family meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is hearty yet lighter than traditional beef versions.
It’s loaded with colorful vegetables for extra nutrition.
The topping is creamy and golden, with the option to make it dairy-free.
It’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and satisfying for weeknight dinners.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground turkey keeps the dish lean but full of flavor.
Onion, garlic, carrots, peas, and corn provide sweetness and texture.
Tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce give depth to the filling.
Dried thyme and rosemary add savory, herby notes.
Mashed potatoes (or cauliflower for a lighter option) create the classic topping.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Brown the turkey well to enhance its flavor.
Simmer the filling until slightly thickened so it doesn’t become watery when baked.
Spread the mashed potatoes carefully to seal in the filling.
For a golden crust, brush the top with a little butter or sprinkle with cheese.
Let the dish rest before serving so it slices cleanly.
How to Make Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Step 1 – Cook the Turkey Filling
Brown ground turkey in a skillet, then set aside.
Sauté onion and garlic, add vegetables, then stir in tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs.
Return turkey, season, and simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 2 – Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Mash boiled potatoes with butter, milk, and salt, or use pre-made mashed potatoes.
For a lighter version, substitute with mashed cauliflower or sweet potatoes.
Step 3 – Assemble the Pie
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread turkey filling in a baking dish, then cover evenly with mashed potatoes.
Optional: top with cheese.
Step 4 – Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling. Let rest briefly before serving.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with a green salad for freshness.
Serve with roasted vegetables for extra fiber.
Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the savory filling.
Variations / Substitutions
Use sweet potato mash for a naturally sweet topping.
Swap peas and corn for green beans or mushrooms.
Add a sprinkle of cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy crust.
Make it dairy-free with plant-based butter and milk.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Microwave individual servings for a quick lunch.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze shepherd’s pie?
Absolutely, freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
What size dish should I use?
A medium baking dish (about 8×8 inches) works well, but any oven-safe dish is fine.
Can I add cheese to the topping?
Yes, shredded cheddar or parmesan adds extra flavor and a golden crust.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk and butter or mashed cauliflower.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can be used as substitutes.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely, try mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for variation.
How do I prevent watery filling?
Simmer the filling long enough to reduce excess liquid.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works just as well.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Bake at 350°F until hot or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Final Thoughts
This ground turkey shepherd’s pie is a comforting dinner that’s both hearty and wholesome.
It’s versatile, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
