This Air Fryer Shepherd’s Pie delivers a rich, savory meat filling topped with golden-brown, crispy mashed potatoes, perfectly portioned for quick air frying.
Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 15 mins | Servings: 4
Weight Watchers: ~7 SmartPoints per serving (using extra lean ground beef or turkey) Macros (per serving): ~320 kcal | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 22g | Fat: 11g
Ingredients
Meat Base:
- 1 lb extra lean ground beef (or ground lamb/turkey)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and sweet corn
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping:
- 2 cups cooked mashed potatoes (or sub cauliflower mash to lower carbs)
- 1/4 cup light shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan (optional, for extra browning)
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and diced onion, cooking until the meat is browned and onions are softened (about 5–6 minutes). Drain any excess grease.
- Build the Gravy: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute. Pour in the beef broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Fold in the peas and corn.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the meat mixture into an air fryer-safe baking pan or pie dish that fits your air fryer basket.
- Add Potato Top: Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat layer and spread evenly. Use a fork to drag light ridges across the top (this creates crispy golden edges). Lightly mist with olive oil spray and sprinkle optional cheese.
- Air Fry: Place the dish into the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden brown and the filling is bubbling hot.
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing or scooping to allow the layers to set.
