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Haunted Shepherd’s Pie with Smoky Twist

This shepherd’s pie features a comforting layer of seasoned ground beef or lentils topped with creamy mashed potatoes, infused with smoky flavors like Worcestershire sauce and smoked paprika. The dish is baked until the top is golden and crispy, creating a warm, inviting texture with a hint of mystery in every bite.
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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: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 2 parsnips parsnips peeled and chopped
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 tbsp oil for sautéing
  • 500 g ground beef or lentils for vegetarian option
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 Worcestershire or soy sauce adds smoky umami flavor
  • 4 large potatoes peeled and boiled for mash
  • 2 cloves garlic roasted or raw, optional
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika for smoky flavor
  • 1/2 cup butter for mash
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream for mash
  • cheddar or mozzarella optional cheese for topping, shredded

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Masher or fork
  • Baking dish
  • Oven thermometer
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
  2. Peel and chop the carrots, parsnips, and onion into bite-sized pieces, creating a colorful mixture.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped vegetables. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add ground beef or lentils to the skillet, breaking apart the meat with a spatula. Cook until browned or heated through, about 8 minutes.
  5. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire or soy sauce, stirring well to combine.
  6. Reduce the heat and simmer the filling for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
  7. Meanwhile, peel and chop the potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
  8. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, milk or cream, and roasted or raw garlic until smooth and fluffy.
  9. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooled filling in the baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
  10. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top for a crispy, cheesy crust.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
  12. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and the topping to firm up.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to the filling. To make it vegan, substitute lentils and plant-based milk and cheese.