Shepherd’s Pie with Tater Tots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers all the cozy, savory flavors of shepherd’s pie with the added crunch and convenience of tater tots. It’s quick to assemble, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. The crispy tots add a delightful contrast to the creamy meat and vegetable filling, making every bite deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or ground lamb
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
• Beef broth
• Tomato paste or ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper
• Cornstarch or flour (for thickening)
• Frozen tater tots
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or lamb with diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Mix cornstarch or flour with a bit of water to create a slurry, then stir into the skillet to thicken the filling. Simmer another 2–3 minutes.
6. Transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
7. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the filling.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
9. Optional: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Make it cheesy: Stir shredded cheese into the meat mixture or top with more cheese for extra richness.
• Use ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, substitute with leaner meats.
• Spice it up: Add chili powder, paprika, or hot sauce to the filling.
• Add gravy mix: For even more flavor, mix in a packet of brown gravy seasoning.
• Vegetarian version: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils and vegetable broth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through.
To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 minutes, or until heated through and golden.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, just make sure they are cooked or sautéed before adding them to the filling.

What’s the best meat to use?

Ground beef is most common, but ground lamb is traditional for shepherd’s pie. You can also use a blend of both.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?

No, use them straight from the freezer for best texture.

Can I add cheese to the filling?

Absolutely. Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a richer flavor.

How do I keep the tater tots crispy?

Bake uncovered and avoid overloading the casserole with too much liquid. A preheated oven helps crisp them nicely.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very much so—tater tots and cheesy beef are a kid favorite.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the filling on the stove and then transfer it to a slow cooker. Top with tater tots and cook on high for 2–3 hours.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A green salad or steamed veggies make great sides to balance the richness of the dish.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, portion them into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Shepherd’s Pie with Tater Tots is a delicious and creative twist on the classic comfort food. With its rich meat and vegetable filling and crispy tater tot topping, this casserole is as fun to eat as it is easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a cozy meal to enjoy all week, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Shepherd’s Pie with Tater Tots

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Shepherd’s Pie with Tater Tots is a comforting twist on the traditional dish, featuring a savory ground meat and vegetable filling topped with crispy golden tater tots and optional melted cheese. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs ground beef or ground lamb
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste or ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch or flour (for thickening)
• 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or lamb with diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Add mixed vegetables and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Mix cornstarch or flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the skillet to thicken the mixture. Simmer another 2–3 minutes.
6. Transfer meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until tater tots are golden and crispy.
9. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add chili powder or paprika to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Use fresh vegetables—just pre-cook them before adding.
• Top with cheese for a melty, rich finish.
• Freeze before baking for an easy make-ahead meal.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 510
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 870mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg