Pumpkin Patch Shepherds Pie

Recipe Introduction

Ever wondered what to serve for halloween dinners that isn't just sweets? I get it! Finding the perfect balance between spooky and satisfying can be a real head scratcher.

This Pumpkin Patch Shepherd's Pie is your answer. It's a fun twist on a classic, loaded with flavour. Think a comforting cottage pie, but with a Halloween makeover!

Spooktacular Shepherd's Pie

Shepherd's pie, or cottage pie, is British comfort food. It usually involves ground beef and a mashed potato topping. This version adds a spooky, Halloween twist! It's a great way to celebrate the autumn season.

This recipe is medium difficulty. It takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to make and serves 6-8 people.

Benefits of This Halloween Dinner

Packed with veggies and protein, this recipe is hearty and nutritious. It's also a perfect halloween dinner for kids ! Plus, it’s a total crowd pleaser for a halloween dinner party .

The mashed potato "pumpkin patch" topping is what makes this recipe special. Honestly, who wouldn't love a cheesy, green tinted potato masterpiece? Let's get started with the ingredients.

Right then, let's get this Halloween dinner sorted, shall we? I'm thinking a "Pumpkin Patch Shepherd's Pie". It's like a cottage pie recipe meets Halloween themed dinner .

Ingredients & Equipment

Let's gather the spooky essentials! Don't worry, nothing too scary here. Just some good ol' ingredients and tools.

Main Ingredients

Here's what you'll need, measured precisely.

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
• 1 large onion , chopped (approx. 200g ) - make sure it's firm!
• 2 carrots , peeled and diced (approx. 150g )
• 2 celery stalks, diced (approx. 100g )
• 1 pound ground beef (or lamb!) ( 450g ) - look for a bright red color.
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup beef broth (120ml)
• 1 ( 14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes , undrained ( 400g )
• 1 cup frozen peas (approx. 120g )
• 1/2 cup frozen corn (approx. 75g )
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the "Pumpkin Patch" Topping:

• 3 pounds russet potatoes , peeled and quartered (approx. 1.3kg )
• 1/2 cup milk (120ml)
• 1/4 cup butter , unsalted ( 56g )
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (approx. 50g )
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (approx. 25g )
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Green food coloring (gel or liquid)

Seasoning Notes

Alright, let's talk flavour!

• Thyme and rosemary are a classic combo with ground beef .
• Smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky depth.
• A touch of cinnamon ? Trust me, it works!
• No rosemary? Use oregano instead.

Equipment Needed

Nothing too fancy, I promise.

• Large skillet or Dutch oven - for browning the ground beef .
• Potato masher or electric mixer - for the mashed potatoes .
• Large pot - for boiling potatoes .
• 9x13 inch baking dish - for baking our Halloween dinners .
• Piping bag (optional) and star tip (optional) - to make it fun halloween food !

Honestly, that’s it! You probably have most of this already. Let's get cooking halloween recipes !

Pumpkin Patch Shepherd's Pie: Spooky Comfort Food for Halloween Dinners

Right then, let's get this halloween dinner sorted, shall we? I am thinking less 'Trick or Treat' and more 'Spooktacular Feast'! I’m thinking a Pumpkin Patch Shepherd's Pie .

This is a twist on a classic. It's fun and so comforting. Perfect for chilly autumn evenings. Honestly, what's more comforting than mashed potatoes on a cold night? Plus, it's super easy to adapt for little picky eaters or dietary needs.

Halloween dinners just got a whole lot tastier.

Prep Steps: Your Spooktacular Mise en Place

First, let's get organised. Chop your veggies: 1 large onion , 2 carrots , and 2 celery stalks. Mince 2 cloves of garlic .

Peel and quarter 3 pounds of russet potatoes . Having everything ready saves loads of time. It also makes cooking so much easier.

Trust me, it's worth it. Halloween recipes can be easy when you're prepared! Also, remember to preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C)

step-by-step Process: From Cauldron to Table

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned. Drain off any excess fat. Soggy pie? No thanks!
3. Stir in garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme , 1 teaspoon dried rosemary , 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika , and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon . Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add 1/2 cup of beef broth and 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes . Simmer for 15 minutes. The sauce should thicken a bit.
5. Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas and 1/2 cup frozen corn . Season with salt and pepper.
6. Boil the potatoes until tender. Mash with 1/2 cup of milk , 1/4 cup of butter , 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese , 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese , and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg .
7. Add green food coloring to the mashed potatoes to create a "pumpkin patch" effect.
8. Pour the meat filling into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes. Bake for 20- 25 minutes . The topping should be lightly golden. Remember: You're looking for golden brown on top and bubbling around the edges. That's how you know it's ready.

Pro Tips: Halloween Themed Dinner Hacks

Want to level up your Shepherd's pie recipe ? Add a dash of smoked paprika to the mashed potatoes . It gives a lovely smoky flavour.

You can prepare the filling a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge. Then, assemble and bake when you're ready.

It's a great time saver. Also, don't be shy with the seasoning. Taste as you go. Adjust as needed.

Recipe Notes for Your Spooktacular Pumpkin Patch Shepherd's Pie

Right, you've got the recipe for this wicked Pumpkin Patch Shepherd's Pie. But, here's a few extra bits and bobs to make sure your halloween dinners are killer.

Let's make your halloween party food a real scream!

Serving Suggestions: A Feast for the Eyes (and the Stomach!)

Honestly, presentation is key here, especially for halloween dinners . Plating up your pie like a pro? Try dolloping your mashed potatoes with a spoon for rustic 'pumpkins' or go full-on posh with a piping bag and a star tip.

So fancy!

On the side, some steamed green beans or even some broccoli? Lovely. And a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette? Perfect to balance the richness of the cottage pie recipe .

If you are really pushing the boat out, you could make some pumpkin spice latte or a warm apple cider.

Storage Tips: Keeping the Spook Alive

Got leftovers? No worries! This shepherd's pie recipe keeps like a dream.

• Refrigeration: Pop it in the fridge, covered, and it'll be good for up to 3 days. Easy peasy.
• Freezing: Yep, you can freeze it! Let it cool completely, then wrap it well in cling film and foil. It'll last for up to 3 months. Then you can enjoy it after halloween .
• Reheating: Thaw it in the fridge overnight (if frozen). Then, bung it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through and bubbling. You could give it a blast in the microwave too, if you're in a hurry.

Variations: Make It Your Own!

Fancy a twist? I've got you covered.

• Dietary Adaptations: Going veggie? Swap the ground beef for lentils. Easy! Also, you can use unsweetened almond milk if you are lactose intolerant or vegan.
• Seasonal Swaps: Not feeling peas and corn? Some butternut squash would work a treat. It will compliment your pumpkin recipe .

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Alright, so it's comfort food , but it's not all bad!

Each serving's got a good whack of protein and some fiber from those veggies. Just a heads-up, that calories are around 450-550 per serving.

So, you know, maybe skip the extra halloween desserts ... or don't! Who am I to judge?.

Listen, making halloween dinners should be fun and stress free. Honestly, just get in the kitchen and give it a go. You've got this! This halloween themed dinner will be a hit.