There’s something so cozy about a warm shepherd’s pie, especially when made with lean ground turkey.
This lighter twist on the classic dish keeps all the comfort while adding more balance.
With savory filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a healthier version of shepherd’s pie made with ground turkey.
The filling is hearty and full of veggies, making it a complete meal.
It’s family-friendly comfort food that’s easy to prepare.
You can make it ahead of time and reheat for busy nights.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground turkey provides lean protein with less fat.
Onion, garlic, carrots, peas, and corn create a veggie-packed filling.
Tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce bring depth and richness.
Mashed potatoes make the perfect creamy topping.
Dried thyme and rosemary add savory, earthy flavor.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use fresh herbs if available—they’ll brighten the flavor.
Make the mashed potatoes creamy but not too runny.
Let the filling thicken slightly before topping with potatoes.
Add cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust.
How to Make Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Step 1 – Prepare the filling
Cook turkey in a skillet until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté onion and garlic, then add carrots, peas, and corn.
Stir in tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire, thyme, and rosemary.
Simmer until thickened, then return turkey to skillet.
Step 2 – Make mashed potatoes
Boil potatoes until tender. Mash with butter, milk, and salt until smooth.
For shortcuts, use store-bought mashed potatoes.
Step 3 – Assemble the pie
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread turkey filling in a baking dish, then layer mashed potatoes on top.
Smooth with a spatula. Optionally sprinkle cheese.
Step 4 – Bake to perfection
Bake 20–25 minutes until the topping is golden and filling is bubbling.
Let cool slightly before serving.
What to Serve It With
Pair with a simple green salad for freshness.
Serve with roasted vegetables for extra comfort.
Enjoy alongside warm bread to soak up the sauce.
Variations / Substitutions
Use mashed sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a lighter topping.
Swap ground turkey for chicken, beef, or lamb.
Add mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
Make it dairy-free with plant-based butter and milk.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven for best texture or microwave for convenience.
Freeze fully baked shepherd’s pie for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it a day before and bake when ready.
Can I freeze shepherd’s pie?
Absolutely—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen peas and corn work perfectly.
How do I prevent watery filling?
Let the filling simmer until slightly thickened before adding potatoes.
Can I add cheese to the topping?
Yes, cheddar or parmesan creates a delicious crust.
What’s the best pan size for this recipe?
An 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish works well.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Definitely—it saves time and works great.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can replace it with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure broth and Worcestershire are gluten-free.
How do I know it’s done baking?
The top should be golden, and the filling bubbling around the edges.
Final Thoughts
This ground turkey shepherd’s pie is comfort food at its best—hearty, wholesome, and satisfying.
It’s the perfect balance of rich flavors and light ingredients, making it a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
