Growing up in Texas, I have a special place in my heart for Tex-Mex recipes. Such simple dishes Tex-Mex Salad Wraps And Southwest Shepherd’s Pie makes a regular appearance on our family’s menu. It’s a sweet twist on it Classic shepherd’s pie Cooking guide.
Similar to taco casserole, but with a creamy potato layer. You can make this easy Southwest Shepherd’s Pie recipe ahead of time and pop it in the oven for an easy dinner. The toppings are customizable, but cilantro and chopped jalapeño are our favorites.
Southwest Shepherd’s Pie Ingredients
This recipe uses a variety of Southwestern styles. Instead of the classic carrots, celery and peas, we’re using zucchini, tomatoes and bell peppers. And the spices are enhanced with spicy oregano and chili powder, the flavor enhanced with cumin and smoked paprika.
You can even choose your favorite potato for the roof. I like to use russet potatoes because they are more starchy and give it a nice texture. Creamy yellow or red potatoes also work well. Or switch it up and try Southwest Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie with orange or white sweet potatoes.
For meat, I use it Grass-fed beef. It has a better nutrient profile (and is generally healthier) than grain-fed beef. I like to cook ground beef in bulk at the beginning of the week to make meal prep easier. If you like, ground chicken or ground turkey will work as well.
Why you love Southwest Shepherd’s Pie
In addition to the delicious taste, I love that this recipe has 21 grams of protein per serving. It’s convenient and satisfying for those chilly nights when I need something warm for dinner. Although there are a few steps involved, it comes together fairly quickly with a 20 minute prep time.
Sometimes I make a double batch and save some for later. Simply place the completely cooled pan in the refrigerator (in a freezer-safe container). Once you’re ready to reheat, let it melt and put it back in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly. Southwest Shepherd’s Pie tastes even better the next day if you have leftovers. This will give the ingredients a little time to melt.
Here’s how to do it!

Southwest Shepherd’s Pie
For Topping
- 2 Choice of medium potatoes (peeled and chopped)
- 2 TBSP Grass-fed butter (or avocado oil)
- ¼ Cup Unfiltered almond milk (or selected milk)
- ½ tsp Garlic powder
- Salt to taste
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Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Boil the sliced potatoes in salted water until soft for 12-15 minutes. Drizzle with butter, almond milk, garlic powder and salt and mash. Set aside.
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Brown the meat in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add onion, garlic, bell pepper and zucchini and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft.
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Mix the spices, tomatoes and black beans. If the mixture seems dry, add the broth and cook for 5 minutes.
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Transfer the filling to a greased 9×9 or medium pan. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over it.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, until melted and golden brown.
Nutrition facts
Southwest Shepherd’s Pie
Amount per service provider (1 time)
Calories 298
Calories from fat 108
% Daily Value*
Fat 12 g18%
Saturated fat 6 g38%
Trans fat 1 g
Polyunsaturated fat 1 g
Monounsaturated fat 4 g
Cholesterol 59 mg20%
Sodium 480 mg21%
Potassium 793 mg23%
Carbohydrates 27 g9%
Fiber 5 g21%
Sugar 4 g4%
Protein 21 g42%
Vitamin A 1324 IU26%
Vitamin C 35 mg42%
Calcium 79 mg8%
Metal 4 mg22%
* Percent daily values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- Top and serve: Garnish with cilantro, avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Use whatever potatoes you want here. Russet, sweet potatoes or white sweet potatoes are all great options!
Customize toppings
My kids love choosing their own tops when I do this. You can even do a toppings bar (like a taco bar). Have a few options on the table for the family to choose from, so everyone can adjust their tastes to their preferences. Here are some ideas:
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Boiled onions
- chopped cilantro
- Sliced bacon
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- More cheese
- Sliced black olives
- Chopped jalapeno or poblano pepper
What are some of your favorite cuisines? Leave a comment and let us know!
