Spicy Shepherd’s Pie

Spicy Shepherd’s Pie is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish, adding a kick of heat to the hearty layers of savory ground meat, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. This version blends traditional ingredients like ground beef or lamb with bold spices such as chili powder, paprika, and a touch of cayenne for an extra punch. Topped with golden, buttery mashed potatoes, this dish is both rich and satisfying, perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their meals. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, Spicy Shepherd’s Pie delivers a delicious balance of heat and heartiness.

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the mashed potato topping:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp paprika (for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the mashed potatoes: In a large pot, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
2. Cook the filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the vegetables and spices: Stir in the diced carrots, tomato paste, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and beef broth. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the pie: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading them out to cover the filling completely. Use a fork to create texture on the surface of the potatoes and sprinkle with paprika.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
6. Serve: Allow the Spicy Shepherd’s Pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.

This Spicy Shepherd’s Pie is a bold, comforting dish that adds an exciting twist to a classic recipe, making it a perfect dinner for spice lovers!