Easy Low-Carb Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

What is Shepherd’s Pie? 

Originally from England and Ireland, shepherd’s pie was created to use up leftover meat and potatoes. Traditionally topped with mashed potatoes, this dish is now adaptable to all kinds of diets, including this low-carb, veggie-packed version. It still delivers all the coziness of the classic, but in a way that’s lighter and works with keto, Whole30, and AIP diets.

Why You’ll Love This Low-Carb Shepherd’s Pie

This version of shepherd’s pie is simple yet deeply satisfying, thanks to a topping that’s creamy and low in carbs, made from a blend of cauliflower and carrots. The addition of carrots adds weight to the cauliflower, creating a heartier mash that closely resembles classic mashed potatoes, giving this dish a traditional feel. It’s a versatile recipe too, fitting a variety of diets: it’s Whole30 and keto-friendly, with easy swaps for an AIP-compliant option.

The filling boasts balanced flavors, with savory ground beef (or lamb), garlic, and fresh herbs that bring a classic taste, while apple cider vinegar brightens up each bite. Best of all, this recipe is a true one-pot wonder; using an oven-safe skillet makes for quick preparation and even easier cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep days.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Cauliflower and Carrots: The key to a low-carb, creamy topping, these vegetables create a fluffy, potato-like mash while keeping it low in carbs. If you’d like, you can also try mashed turnips.
• Ground Meat: This recipe works with either beef or lamb. Beef brings a savory taste, while lamb offers a more traditional flavor.
• Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and celery form a fragrant base for the filling. Feel free to add extra veggies, like zucchini or mushrooms, if desired.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh rosemary and thyme add depth, with salt and pepper for seasoning. AIP followers can simply omit black pepper and tomato paste.
• Apple Cider Vinegar and Broth: These bring a subtle brightness and depth to the meat filling. Bone broth is especially delicious for extra richness.

See the full recipe card below for detailed ingredient amounts and full instructions. 

How to Make Low-Carb Shepherd’s Pie

Step 1. Boil the Vegetables: Bring a large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the carrots and simmer for 5 minutes. Then add cauliflower florets and cook for 5 more minutes, until both carrots and cauliflower are fork-tender.

Step 2. Prepare the Mash: Drain the vegetables, transfer to a food processor, add ghee and salt, and process until smooth.

Step 3. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 4. Cook the Filling: Heat ghee in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot, cooking for 5 minutes while stirring. Add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5. Brown the Meat: Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in tomato paste.

Step 6. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together broth, apple cider vinegar, rosemary, thyme, and arrowroot starch. Pour over the beef mixture, then simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 7. Assemble and Bake: Remove the skillet from heat. Top with the cauliflower-carrot mash, spreading it evenly over the meat layer with a spatula.

Step 8. Bake and Serve: Bake for 20 minutes until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.