Q1: What is the real difference between a Shepherd's Pie and a Cottage Pie?

A true, traditional Shepherd's Pie is always made with ground lamb (because a shepherd herds sheep!). A Cottage Pie , which is also a classic British dish, is the name for the version of the pie that is made with ground beef . This delicious recipe is fantastic with either!

Q2: How do I get my mashed potato topping a really vibrant and spooky color?

The beet juice is the key! For the most vibrant, reddish-pink color, be sure to use about 1/4 cup of beet juice. For a deeper, more "bloody" red color, you can add a few extra tablespoons. You can also add a few drops of a red food coloring for an even more intense and artificial color, if you desire.

Q3: Can I make this "Gory" Shepherd's Pie ahead of time for a Halloween party?

Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead dish! You can fully assemble the entire unbaked pie, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days . When your party starts, you can simply pop it in the oven to bake.

Q4: What are the best kind of potatoes to use for a fluffy mashed potato topping?

The absolute best potatoes for a light and fluffy mash are high-starch varieties. A classic Russet potato is a fantastic choice, as is a more buttery and creamy Yukon Gold potato .

Q5: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Of course! For a delicious and hearty vegetarian version, you can simply substitute the ground meat with about 1 1/2 to 2 cups of cooked brown or green lentils and about 8 ounces of sautéed, chopped mushrooms . Be sure to also use a savory vegetable broth instead of the beef broth.

Gory Shepherd's Pie (The Perfect Halloween Dinner!)

Gory Shepherd’s Pie (The Perfect Halloween Dinner!)

A classic Shepherd’s Pie recipe with a spooky, Halloween-themed twist, aptly named ‘Gory Shepherd’s Pie.’ This comforting casserole features a savory filling of ground lamb or beef cooked with onions, garlic, peas, and carrots in a simple gravy. The traditional mashed potato topping is given a ‘gory’ red color with the addition of beet juice. The entire dish is then baked until the filling is bubbly and the potato topping is slightly browned.

Author: Grace

Ingredients

1 lb ground lamb or beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth
4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup beet juice
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
While the oven preheats, place the cubed potatoes in a pot, cover with salted water, and boil until tender.
While the potatoes are boiling, brown the ground meat with the onion and garlic in a large skillet. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
Add the frozen peas and carrots, and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Season the meat mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Drain the cooked potatoes. Mash them with the butter, beet juice, salt, and pepper until they are smooth and evenly colored.
Spread the meat mixture in the bottom of a baking dish and top it with the pink mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is slightly browned and the filling is bubbly.
Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

This is a creative and festive way to serve a classic comfort food for a Halloween dinner.
The unique ‘gory’ or bloody appearance comes from mixing beet juice into the mashed potatoes.
Traditionally, Shepherd’s Pie is made with ground lamb, while a version with ground beef is called a Cottage Pie. This recipe allows for either.

Find it online: https://www.eatswithsoul.com/gory-shepherds-pie/