Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet

Name: Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb or beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups mashed potatoes; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (feta or mozzarella)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love whipping up this Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet! It all started one evening when I craved a comforting dish with a Mediterranean twist. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground meat, savory herbs, and creamy mashed potatoes topped with a sprinkle of cheese. The best part? It’s ready in just 40 minutes! Each bite transports me to sun-drenched shores, and I am excited to share this fusion of hearty and fresh ingredients with you. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you want to impress guests without too much fuss.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:22:27.136Z

This Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet is a culinary adventure that started in my kitchen and paved the way for trying new flavors. Incorporating spices like cumin and coriander with traditional ingredients brings a delightful warmth. I experimented with layering the creamy mashed potatoes and realized how it enhanced the overall texture and flavor, turning a traditional dish into something exciting and aromatic.

When I made this dish for the first time, I noticed that adding olives and sun-dried tomatoes created an unexpected depth. My family couldn't get enough of the unique flavor profile! Remember, you can adjust the spices to your liking, making it perfect for everyone at the dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful twist on a classic comfort food
Rich flavors of the Mediterranean that elevate your palate
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

Flavorful Ingredients Come Together

The blend of ground meat, whether lamb or beef, forms the rich base of this dish. Ground lamb offers a traditional Mediterranean flair with its slightly gamey taste, while ground beef can be a familiar substitute for those who prefer it. Be sure to cook it thoroughly until browned, which not only enhances the flavor but also ensures food safety.

Ingredients like kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes contribute depth and a briny sweetness that brightens the entire skillet. Using quality olives plays a significant role here; their sharpness and oiliness contrast beautifully with the creamy mashed potatoes, so don't skimp on quality! Roasting your own tomatoes beforehand could elevate the dish even more but opt for jarred ones for a quicker assembly during busy weeknights.

Perfecting the Mashed Potatoes

The mashed potatoes form a comforting layer that balances the dish's savory elements. For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Yukon Golds, as they create a creamier consistency. Don't forget to season them well with salt, as the potatoes absorb flavors from the other ingredients once combined in the skillet.

If you're short on time, store-bought mashed potatoes are a great option, although I recommend reheating them gently to avoid a gummy texture. Simply microwave them until warm and then mix in a bit of cream or butter for extra richness before spreading them over your filling.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground lamb or beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups mashed potatoes
1/2 cup shredded cheese (feta or mozzarella)

Instructions

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the carrot, bell pepper, frozen peas, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Top with Mashed Potatoes

Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the meat and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake the Skillet

Bring the skillet to a simmer, then cover and cook on low for 10-15 minutes, until heated through and the cheese melts. Optionally, broil for a few minutes for a crispy topping.

Pro Tips

For a creamier mashed potato layer, you can mix in some cream cheese or sour cream into the mashed potatoes before spreading them on top. Feel free to swap out the meat for a plant-based alternative to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet is an ideal candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the meat and vegetable mixture ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it in the skillet and top with freshly made or leftover mashed potatoes before baking, making sure everything is heated through to avoid a cold center.

If you have leftovers, they store very well! Simply transfer the cooled skillet to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can reheat it in the oven, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 25-30 minutes at 350°F) to prevent the potatoes from drying out.

Serving Variations

While I love the classic version of this dish, consider adding a unique twist by incorporating different vegetables like zucchini or spinach. These additions not only enhance the dish's nutritional value but also introduce varying textures that can make each bite irresistible. Just be cautious about moisture levels; if you include watery vegetables, you might need to cook off some of their liquid before adding the mashed potatoes.

For an extra layer of flavor and a gourmet touch, you can drizzle a bit of lemon-infused olive oil over the top just before serving. This brightens the dish, complementing the rich earthy flavors beautifully, and makes it feel more sophisticated for guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just top with mashed potatoes before baking when you’re ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of lamb?

Ground beef or turkey works well as a substitute for lamb, providing a different flavor profile while still being delicious.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Mediterranean Shepherd's Pie Skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as the ingredients you use are verified gluten-free.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding zucchini, eggplant, or even spinach to incorporate more vegetables into the dish.