Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a lighter take on the classic comfort food. Made with lean ground turkey, hearty vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping, it’s a wholesome, satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep. This version keeps all the savory flavor you love while offering a healthier twist.

ingredients

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

ground turkeyoniongarliccarrotspeasfrozen cornolive oiltomato pastechicken brothWorcestershire saucethymeparsleysaltpepperrusset potatoesbuttermilk

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Peel and chop the potatoes, then boil in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.

Stir in ground turkey and cook until browned.

Add diced carrots, peas, and corn. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 5 minutes, reducing slightly.

Mash the drained potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Spread the turkey mixture evenly in a baking dish.

Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading to cover completely and creating small ridges with a fork for texture.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the filling is bubbling.

Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Swap in ground chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.

Use sweet potatoes instead of russet for a richer, slightly sweet topping.

Add shredded cheese to the mashed potatoes for a cheesy twist.

Include celery or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and butter substitutes.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.To reheat the entire dish, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pie and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, for convenience, though fresh mashed potatoes offer the best texture and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, as long as your broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.

What vegetables work best?

Classic options like carrots, peas, and corn work great, but feel free to customize with what you have.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, mixing cheese into the mashed potatoes or sprinkling on top before baking adds great flavor.

What type of turkey should I use?

Lean ground turkey (93/7 or 85/15) is ideal for balanced flavor and texture.

How do I prevent a watery pie?

Simmer the filling well to reduce excess moisture before adding the mashed potatoes.

Can I make this in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, if your skillet is oven-safe, you can bake it directly in the pan.

Is this kid-friendly?

Definitely—kids love the creamy topping and mild flavors.

Conclusion

Easy Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a delicious and nourishing update to a beloved classic. It brings all the comfort of traditional shepherd’s pie with a lighter, healthier twist. Perfect for cozy dinners or weekly meal prep, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.