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Spooky Shepherd’s Pie

This dark and smoky shepherd’s pie features a hearty filling of seasoned ground beef layered beneath a velvety mash of root vegetables. The dish combines roasting, sautéing, and baking to create a comforting, visually appealing casserole with crispy edges and a rich, flavorful interior that hints at fireside evenings and cozy secrets.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 2 parsnips parsnips peeled and chopped
  • 1 small butternut squash peeled and chopped
  • 300 g ground beef lean with some fat
  • 1 diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon thyme fresh or dried
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • optional cheese or cayenne for topping or spice

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Ovenproof baking dish
  • Masher or fork
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Place the peeled and chopped carrots, parsnips, and butternut squash into a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until very tender, about 15 minutes.
  2. Drain the cooked vegetables thoroughly and transfer them to a large bowl. Mash until smooth and creamy using a masher or fork, then set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Spread the beef mixture evenly in an ovenproof baking dish.
  6. Spread the mashed root vegetables over the beef filling, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
  7. Optional: sprinkle cheese or a pinch of cayenne on top for extra flavor and a crispy finish.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden and crispy, about 20 minutes, watching to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, with crispy edges and a rich, smoky aroma wafting through the air.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, consider adding a splash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne to the mash or filling. Adjust seasoning to taste, and enjoy the cozy, mischievous twist on classic shepherd’s pie.