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Creepy Shepherd’s Pie With Ground Beef And Ghost Potatoes

Creepy Shepherd’s Pie With Ground Beef And Ghost Potatoes

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Creepy Shepherd’s Pie With Ground Beef And Ghost Potatoes is a spooky, festive twist on the classic comfort food perfect for Halloween. This hearty and comforting dish features a savory ground beef and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes shaped like adorable ghosts. The recipe is family-friendly, easy to prepare, and customizable to suit various dietary needs, making it an ideal warm meal for chilly nights and fun gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Mashed Potato Ghost Topping

  • 2 lbs (900g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and chopped
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Black olives or whole peppercorns (for ghost eyes)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mashed Ghost Potatoes: Peel and chop your potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and mash them with butter and cream until smooth and creamy. Allow the mash to cool slightly before shaping it into ghost forms using a spoon or your hands. Use black olives or peppercorns for eyes to complete the spooky look.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in diced carrots and peas, followed by tomato paste and beef broth. Let everything simmer until the mixture thickens and the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie: Spread the beef and vegetable filling evenly in a shallow baking dish. Carefully arrange the ghost-shaped mashed potatoes on top, making sure they’re close but not overlapping to maintain their shape during baking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Place your assembled pie in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potato ghosts turn lightly golden and the filling is bubbly. This final step melds flavors and enhances textures for a perfect finish.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the creamiest mashed topping.
  • Don’t overwork the mashed potatoes; keep them smooth but fluffy to hold the ghost shapes well.
  • Allow the filling to thicken sufficiently to prevent soggy potatoes and keep layers distinct.
  • Customize your ghost eyes using black olives, small nori pieces, or whole peppercorns.
  • Use a shallow baking dish to ensure even cooking and an attractive layered presentation.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/6th of pie)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: Halloween recipe, shepherd's pie, mashed potato ghosts, ground beef recipe, comfort food, spooky dinner, family-friendly, gluten free

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/creepy-shepherds-pie-with-ground-beef-and-ghost-potatoes/