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What to Serve with Shepherd’s Pie: 22 Perfect Side Dishes

Wondering what to serve with Shepherd’s Pie? From crisp salads and warm bread to vibrant vegetables with creative twists, here are 22 delicious side dishes to pair with your Shepherd’s Pie. Each option complements the savory, comforting flavors of the pie and helps create a balanced meal everyone will enjoy.

A 6 photo collage showing different sides for shepherd's pie.

Whether you prefer simple, classic sides or something with a bit more flair, you’ll find options here that suit weeknight dinners, holiday meals, and everything in between.

Table of Contents

  • Veggies
  • Side Salad
  • Bread
  • Air Fryer
  • FAQs
  • More Side Dish Recipes

Veggies

Fried cabbage with bacon and onions

Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Onions

Salty, smoky, tangy, and a touch sweet, this fried cabbage with bacon and onions is a flavorful side that pairs especially well with comfort dishes like Shepherd’s Pie. It’s easy to make and works year-round.

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Maple Roasted Carrots

Tender roasted carrots glazed with maple butter become caramelized and slightly sticky—an elegant yet simple vegan-friendly side for any meal.

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Charred Broccolini with Preserved Lemon

Charred broccolini dressed with preserved lemon and capers makes a bright, savory side. Leftovers can be repurposed into pesto or turned into a hearty vegan bowl.

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Up close image of charred broccolini with preserved lemon.

Balsamic Green Beans

Bright and tangy balsamic green beans are an easy side that complements rich mains and holiday spreads alike.

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Batata Harra – Lebanese Spicy Potatoes

Oven-roasted potatoes tossed in a cilantro-garlic chili sauce with lemon bring bright, spicy flavors that cut through the richness of Shepherd’s Pie.

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Up close image of batata harra with garnish.

Oven Roasted Vegetables Medley

A colorful mix of roasted vegetables seasoned simply with oil, salt, and herbs—an easy, versatile side for any season.

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Roasted Beets with Herby Skyr & Pistachios

Earthy roasted beets paired with herb-speckled yogurt and toasted pistachios make a vibrant, slightly tangy side dish.

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Up close image of roasted beets with herby skyr and pistachios.

Baked Candied Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes finished in a spiced, sweet glaze with crunchy pecans—comforting and slightly indulgent next to savory pie.

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Up close image of baked candied sweet potatoes.

Roasted Green Beans and Carrots

A simple, fast side of green beans and carrots roasted with olive oil and herbs—ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for family dinners.

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Crispy Thai Brussel Sprouts

Crispy sprouts tossed in a salty-sweet sauce with peanuts, mint, and a hint of spice—a lively side that adds texture and brightness.

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Cauliflower Steaks with Caramelized Shallots

An elegant, plant-forward side featuring tender cauliflower, caramelized shallots, creamy tahini, and crunchy pistachios—great for a special meal.

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Overhead image of cauliflower steaks with caramelized shallots.

Side Salad

Mixed Green Salad

A mixed green salad offers crispness and freshness—experiment with seasonal greens, nuts, cheese, and dressings to complement the rich pie.

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Spinach Salad with Strawberry Dressing

Spinach tossed with a sweet strawberry-balsamic dressing, fresh berries, and crunchy toppings creates a bright contrast to hearty main dishes.

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Overhead image of spinach salad with strawberry vinaigrette.

Balsamic Pasta Salad

A colorful pasta salad with vegetables, feta, and a sweet-and-sour balsamic dressing—great for potlucks and gatherings alongside Shepherd’s Pie.

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Overhead image of balsamic pasta salad.

Bread

Old fashioned yeast rolls

Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls

Rich, fluffy milk rolls brushed with butter are perfect for soaking up gravy and pairing with a hearty Shepherd’s Pie.

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Up close image of old fashioned soft and buttery yeast roll.

Sourdough Dinner Rolls with Rosemary

Light, pull-apart sourdough rolls infused with rosemary add a rustic aroma and hearty texture to your plate.

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Overhead image of sourdough dinner rolls with rosemary and garnish.

Mexican Cornbread

Moist cornbread with creamed corn, cheese, and green chiles brings a slightly sweet, savory counterpoint to Shepherd’s Pie.

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Up close image of Mexican cornbread slice.

Bisquick Cheddar Biscuits

Quick, golden cheddar biscuits are an easy, cheesy side ideal for soups, stews, and meat pies.

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Air Fryer

Air Fryer Baby Carrots

Quick and easy air-fried baby carrots come out tender and lightly caramelized—finish with honey or herbs for extra flavor.

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Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Crispy, tender Brussels sprouts from the air fryer make a speedy, healthy side with great texture.

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Air Fryer Green Beans

Quickly roasted green beans in the air fryer become crisp-tender; finish with lemon for a fresh lift.

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Overhead image of air fryer green beans on white dish.

Air Fryer Cauliflower

Air-fried cauliflower cooks quickly and develops great flavor and texture—an easy side to prepare while the pie heats.

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Overhead image of air fryer cauliflower with garnish.

FAQs

Should I cover Shepherd’s Pie when reheating?

Yes. Cover the pie with foil or a lid to prevent the top from drying out while reheating.

Enjoy your Shepherd’s Pie with one or more of these complementary sides to create a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

More Side Dish Recipes

Pan of finished caramelized onions with a spoon resting in the center.

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Overhead photo of browned sliced mushrooms in a small bowl on a striped cloth.

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Sautéed Mushrooms for Burgers

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Cooking Resources

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