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Haunted Shepherd’s Pie

This hearty shepherd’s pie features a smoky twist with smoked paprika, layered with rich ground beef, fragrant onions, and vibrant vegetables. Topped with creamy mashed potatoes, it bakes into a bubbling, golden crust that offers comforting textures with a subtle smoky aroma, perfect for chilly nights with a spooky edge.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g potatoes peeled and chopped
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 300 g ground beef
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup cream

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Baking dish
  • Masher or fork
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the potatoes cook, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and juices evaporate, about 8 minutes, until the meat develops a deep caramel color.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and smoked paprika, cooking for another 2 minutes until the mixture darkens slightly and releases a smoky aroma.
  5. Mix in frozen peas and carrots, simmering for 5 minutes until vegetables soften and flavors meld.
  6. While the filling simmers, mash the cooked potatoes with butter and cream until smooth and creamy, adjusting the texture as needed.
  7. Transfer the savory meat mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  8. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer.
  9. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown.
  10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The aroma of smoky paprika and hearty meat will fill the room, inviting everyone to dig in.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, sprinkle a little more smoked paprika on top before baking. Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or mushrooms for variation.