Easy Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a simple and comforting dish that brings together seasoned ground turkey with a fluffy layer of mashed potatoes on top. It’s a classic comfort food made lighter by using turkey instead of beef, and it’s packed with familiar veggies like carrots and peas for extra color and flavor.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and feels like a warm hug on a plate. The best part is how the mashed potatoes get a little crispy on the edges from baking—that golden, crunchy topping adds a nice contrast to the soft filling underneath. I often sprinkle a bit of cheese on top too, just for an extra touch of yum.
Serving this shepherd’s pie with a simple side salad or steamed green beans makes the meal feel even more wholesome. It’s a recipe the whole family tends to enjoy, and I find it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone fussing. Plus, leftovers taste great the next day, making it easy to plan ahead!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey keeps the pie light but still flavorful. If you prefer, ground chicken or lean ground beef are great alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes make a creamy, fluffy topping. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best. For a twist, use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet flavor and extra nutrients.
Vegetables: Carrots, peas, and corn add color and texture. Frozen veggies are easy and just as tasty as fresh. Feel free to swap in green beans, mushrooms, or any favorite veggies you have on hand.
Seasonings: Thyme and Worcestershire sauce add depth of flavor. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can give a similar umami boost. Fresh herbs are great, but dried works well too.
How Can I Get the Mashed Potato Topping Perfectly Golden and Crispy?
Getting that crispy, golden top on your mashed potatoes takes just a little extra care:
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the filling and smooth the surface with a spatula or the back of a fork.
- Using a fork, gently rough up the surface to create little peaks—these areas brown nicely in the oven.
- If you’re adding cheese on top, it helps the browning and adds extra flavor.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) so the potatoes get hot enough to brown nicely without drying out.
Keep an eye near the end of baking to avoid burning—the golden color is your cue that it’s ready to come out!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking ground turkey and veggies evenly without crowding.
- Large pot – you’ll boil potatoes here; a pot with a lid helps speed up cooking.
- Potato masher or fork – makes quick work of turning potatoes into creamy mash.
- Baking dish (about 8×8 inches) – roomy enough for layering turkey and potatoes and baking them all together.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring and breaking up ground turkey as it cooks.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground beef or lamb for a richer, traditional shepherd’s pie taste.
- Add sautéed mushrooms to the turkey mixture for extra earthiness and moisture.
- Mix shredded cheddar or parmesan into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy topping that melts well.
- Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a bright, fresh note in the filling.
Easy Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 2 tsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 45 minutes total: 15-20 minutes to prepare and boil the potatoes, about 10-15 minutes to cook the turkey and veggies, and 20-25 minutes of baking time to get a golden, crispy top. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy dinner that doesn’t take all day to make.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Peel and chop potatoes into even pieces. Boil them in salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain well, then mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper to your liking and set aside.
2. Cook the Turkey Filling:
While potatoes boil, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add chopped onion, garlic, and diced carrots, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute or two to enhance flavor.
Pour in chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Add frozen peas and corn, cook until heated through.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top and smooth it out. Use a fork to create texture on the surface, which will help it brown nicely.
Optionally sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
4. Serve:
Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for the Mashed Potato Topping?
Yes, you can use frozen mashed potatoes to save time! Just make sure to thaw them completely and heat gently before spreading over the filling to ensure even baking and browning.
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the filling and mashed potatoes separately, then assemble the pie but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
What Are Good Substitutions for Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce or balsamic vinegar work well to add umami and depth. Just use a little less soy sauce to avoid making it too salty.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To keep the topping crispy, reheating in the oven is best.
