Shepherd’s Pie Soup

When cozy comfort food meets a hearty soup, you get Shepherd’s Pie Soup — a delicious twist on the classic dish that warms you from the inside out. This creamy, savory soup transforms the well-loved layers of Shepherd’s Pie into an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for cold nights or busy weekdays.

This recipe was inspired by a chilly Sunday evening when I craved something filling but didn’t have the energy to make a full Shepherd’s Pie. I had leftover mashed potatoes in the fridge and some ground beef to use up — and that’s how this soup came to life! It’s now one of our go-to meals when we want something nostalgic, hearty, and family-approved.

If you enjoy comforting soups like our Ham and Bean Soup or Alfredo Lasagna Soup, this one will absolutely win you over.

Why You’ll Love This Shepherd’s Pie Soup

• One Pot Meal: All the flavors of Shepherd’s Pie without all the baking and layering.
• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy mashed potatoes, savory beef, and tender vegetables in every bite.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Great way to use up mashed potatoes, frozen veggies, or leftover meat.
• Family-Friendly: A cozy dinner everyone at the table will enjoy.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for future meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Soup Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef or ground lamb
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Liquids & Veggies:

• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)

Garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra dollop of mashed potatoes or shredded cheese (optional)

How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if needed. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Pour in Broth

Add the beef broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Stir in Peas and Mashed Potatoes

Add the peas and mashed potatoes, stirring until well combined. If you prefer a richer soup, pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley. You can top with a little extra mashed potato or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.

Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie Soup

• Use Leftovers: Leftover mashed potatoes make this recipe quick and efficient.
• Try Lamb: Traditional Shepherd’s Pie uses lamb; feel free to substitute.
• Add Corn: A handful of corn kernels can add sweetness and texture.
• Thicken if Needed: If soup is too thin, mash some veggies or add a bit more mashed potato.

Serving and Storage

• Serve With: A slice of crusty bread or a fresh green salad balances out the richness.
• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the beef with lentils or plant-based meat and use vegetable broth.

What kind of potatoes work best for the mash?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes make creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes.

Is it okay to use store-bought mashed potatoes?
Yes! Store-bought mashed potatoes work perfectly in a pinch.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Ensure your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free and skip any thickening agents.

Final Thoughts

Shepherd’s Pie Soup is the ultimate comfort meal, delivering all the hearty goodness of the original dish in a fuss-free, spoonable version. It’s perfect for meal prepping or serving on a chilly evening when you want something truly satisfying.

For more cozy and creative dinner ideas, browse our full collection at Mealova Recipes.