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Spooky Shepherd’s Pie

Spooky Shepherd's Pie: A Fun Twist for Halloween Family Dinners

A festive and comforting Spooky Shepherd’s Pie that brings fun to your Halloween family dinners.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb Choose ground lamb for traditional taste or beef for heartier flavor.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Adds depth of flavor and sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with warmth.
  • 1 cup carrots, diced Use fresh or frozen.
  • 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen Adds a pop of color.
  • 2 tablespoon tomato paste Rich base for flavor depth.
  • 1 cup beef broth Use low-sodium for flavor control.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Adds umami and tang.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Perfectly pairs with meat and veggies.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Enhances flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds a hint of spice.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
For the Mashed Potatoes
  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped Use starchy varieties like Russets.
  • ¼ cup milk Dairy adds creaminess, can substitute with plant-based milk.
  • 2 tablespoon butter Adds richness; can swap for vegan butter.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Season to preference.
For the Decorations
  • black olives for “eyeballs” Adds a spooky touch.
  • ketchup or sriracha for “blood” Drizzle for a fun effect.
  • shredded cheese for “cobwebs” Try mozzarella or cheddar.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • large skillet
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the mashed potatoes by boiling the peeled and chopped potatoes in a medium saucepan. Cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain, add butter and milk, and mash until smooth.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes. Add ground meat and brown for 5-7 minutes, then stir in carrots and peas, along with tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing lightly.
  4. Spread the meat filling in the baking dish, then spoon the mashed potatoes on top, creating a forked pattern for visual appeal.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the potato topping is golden. Sprinkle shredded cheese during the last 2-3 minutes.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes, then decorate with black olives and drizzle with ketchup or sriracha. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This Spooky Shepherd’s Pie brings a festive flair to your Halloween celebrations while remaining a comforting favorite.

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