Introduction
Ever wondered if a hearty, comforting classic could also be the star of your Halloween feast? You’re not alone! Many of us search for dishes that are both deeply satisfying and playfully themed, especially when the spooky season rolls around. This year, ditch the dilemma and embrace the eerie with our incredible Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience! This recipe is designed to transform a beloved, rustic dish into a ghoulishly delightful centerpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
From the first spoonful, you’ll discover why this isn’t just any old Shepherd’s Pie. We’ve taken the creamy mashed potato topping and infused it with an easy, yet striking, tombstone design, making it the perfect showstopper for your Halloween gathering. Imagine the delight on your guests’ faces as they encounter edible grave markers rising from a savory, rich filling! This dish isn’t just about presentation; it’s about delivering robust flavors that comfort the soul while thrilling the senses. We’re talking about a perfectly seasoned ground meat base (beef or lamb, your choice!), brimming with tender vegetables and a luscious gravy, all crowned with a fluffy potato blanket.
The beauty of this Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll find the steps straightforward and enjoyable. It’s also incredibly family-friendly, meaning even the pickiest eaters will be enticed by its spooky charm and delicious taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some wholesome vegetables, making it a win-win for parents. Forget spending hours on intricate Halloween decorations when your dinner can pull double duty as both a meal and a centerpiece. We’ll guide you through every trick and treat to ensure your pie emerges from the oven as a culinary masterpiece, ready to impress. So get ready to dig into a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, combining the warmth of home cooking with the playful spirit of Halloween!
Why You’ll Love This Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie
You’re about to discover your new favorite Halloween tradition, and it all starts with this incredible Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie. Why will this recipe earn a permanent spot in your spooky season rotation? Let us count the ways!
First off, it’s an absolute showstopper. Forget boring casseroles; this dish transforms a classic comfort food into a visually stunning centerpiece for your Halloween table. The “tombstone” effect, achieved with a simple piping technique using mashed potatoes, is incredibly effective and surprisingly easy to execute. Your guests will be absolutely wowed by the creativity and effort, even though it’s largely effortless!
Secondly, it’s unbelievably delicious and satisfying. At its core, this is a classic Shepherd’s Pie – a hearty, savory filling loaded with seasoned ground meat, an array of tender vegetables, and a rich, deeply flavored gravy. This isn’t just a gimmick; it’s genuinely good food that will warm you from the inside out. With every mouthful, you get a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that comfort and delight. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone feel nourished and content, perfect for a chilly autumn evening.
Third, the recipe offers fantastic flexibility. Whether you prefer ground beef, lamb, or even a vegetarian alternative, the base can be easily adapted to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Love spice? Add a pinch of cayenne! Prefer more herbs? Go wild with rosemary and thyme! This adaptability makes it a forgiving and fun recipe to experiment with, ensuring it’s always tailored to your family’s tastes. Looking for other adaptable Halloween treats? You might love making these Easy Mummy Hot Dogs or even some Easy Ghost Popcorn Bags for a full spread.
Fourth, it’s surprisingly simple to make, even for beginners. We’ve broken down every step into crystal-clear instructions, making the process straightforward and enjoyable. You don’t need any advanced culinary skills to create this impressive dish. The mashed potato “tombstones” might look intricate, but they’re incredibly forgiving and fun to pipe—even if they’re a little wonky, they just add to the spooky charm! This ease of preparation means you can focus more on enjoying the process and less on stressing in the kitchen.
Finally, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate vegetables into a meal in a kid-friendly way. The savory filling is packed with carrots, peas, and corn, and often disappears without a fuss when hidden beneath a delicious potato topping and surrounded by a spooky theme. It’s a sneaky win for parents striving to add more nutrients to their family’s diet, all while having fun. Who knew healthy eating could be so hauntingly good? For more fun Halloween food ideas, consider whipping up some Easy Monster Rice Krispie Treats or these adorable Easy Adorable Ghost Cookies to complete your spooky menu. This Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie truly brings joy, flavor, and a touch of spooky magic to your dinner table.
- Spooktacular Presence: Transforms a classic into a dazzling Halloween centerpiece with minimal effort.
- Seriously Delicious: A deeply savory, rich, and comforting meal that’s packed with flavor.
- Highly Adaptable: Easily customize the meat, vegetables, and seasonings to fit your preferences.
- Beginner-Friendly: Clear, step-by-step instructions make it accessible for all skill levels.
- Family-Approved: A clever way to get kids excited about eating vegetables, thanks to the spooky theme.
- Make-Ahead Potential: Can be prepared in advance, freeing up time on the day of your gathering.
Ingredients for Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightfully spooky and delicious Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this hauntingly good dish to life:
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 lbs (about 4-5 medium) Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp cream cheese or sour cream for added tang and creaminess
For the Savory Meat Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean is ideal) or ground lamb
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for freshness and garnish
Substitutions & Tips:
- Potatoes: While Russets or Yukon Golds are best for fluffy mash, you can use other starchy potatoes. For a lighter topping, you could even try a blend of half potatoes, half cauliflower.
- Milk: Any milk will work, but whole milk or half-and-half yields the creamiest results. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.
- Ground Meat: If you prefer a healthier option, use leaner ground beef (90/10) or ground turkey. For a vegetarian version, substitute ground meat with 1.5 lbs of finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Vegetables: Feel free to customize! Green beans, chopped bell peppers, or even diced zucchini would be delicious additions. Just make sure they are diced small enough to cook through evenly.
- Red Wine: If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply substitute with an additional 1/2 cup of beef broth. The flavor will still be fantastic!
- Herbs: Dried herbs can be used in place of fresh, just remember to use about half the amount.
How to Make Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie
Here’s how to bring your chillingly delicious Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie to life, step by step!
Step-by-Step Instructions
This detailed guide ensures a perfect, spooky pie every time. Remember, the key is attention to detail and a little Halloween spirit!
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water by about an inch.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly. Return them to the hot, empty pot to allow any remaining moisture to evaporate for a minute or two. This prevents watery mashed potatoes.
- Add milk, butter, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to the potatoes.
- Mash until smooth and creamy. For extra smoothness, you can use a potato ricer. If using, stir in optional cream cheese or sour cream here.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.
Cook the Meat Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (like a cast iron skillet) or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef (or lamb). Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain off any excess fat from the pan. You want just enough to coat the bottom.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5-8 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the fat and cook off its raw taste. This will help thicken your gravy.
Build the Gravy:
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Stir constantly to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, and bay leaf.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Stir in the frozen peas and corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.
- Taste the filling and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. It should be rich and savory.
Assemble the Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the meat and vegetable filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish (or an 8×8 inch dish for a thicker pie, adjusting baking time). Ensure the filling is evenly distributed.
- Create the Tombstones: Transfer about 2/3 of the mashed potatoes into a large piping bag fitted with a wide star tip (e.g., Wilton 1M or 2D). If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a large zip-top bag with one corner snipped off.
- Pipe rectangular “tombstone” shapes onto the top of the filling, leaving space between them. You can pipe a few rows, aiming for 5-7 tombstones. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; rustic adds to the charm!
- Using the remaining mashed potatoes, spoon or spread them in between and around the tombstones, covering all the meat filling. You can use a fork to create little peaks and valleys in the “dirt” around the tombstones.
- For extra browning, you can lightly brush the tops of the tombstones with a little melted butter or milk.
Bake the Pie:
- Place the baking dish on a baking sheet (to catch any potential spills).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling around the edges and the mashed potato topping is golden brown and slightly crispy in spots.
- If the potatoes are not browning enough, you can place it under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. (This is especially effective for achieving beautiful browning on the tombstones).
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the pie from the oven. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents it from being too runny.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, to resemble creepy moss or grass.
- Serve warm and watch your guests delight in this spooky and hearty meal! For more spooky appetizers, try these Easy Bloody Eyeball Meatballs or a chilling Easy Graveyard Taco Dip.
Pro Tips & Variations
Making this Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie is already a treat, but with these pro tips and variations, you can elevate it even further, making it uniquely yours and ensuring a smooth cooking process.
Pro Tips:
- Perfectly Dry Potatoes: After draining your boiled potatoes, return them to the hot, empty pot over low heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This crucial step helps evaporate excess moisture, resulting in incredibly fluffy mashed potatoes that won’t make your topping watery.
- Room Temperature Milk/Butter: When adding milk and butter to your mashed potatoes, ensure they are at room temperature. Cold dairy can seize up the starch in the potatoes, making them gummy. Room temperature ingredients blend much more smoothly for that perfect creamy consistency.
- Don’t Overmix the Mashed Potatoes: Mash your potatoes until just smooth. Overmixing can lead to a gluey, unpleasant texture. Stop as soon as you achieve your desired creaminess. For extra fluffy results, a potato ricer is your best friend!
- The Power of the Simmer: Allow the meat filling to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or even longer if you have time. This allows the flavors to truly meld and deepen, transforming a good sauce into a great one. The longer the simmer, the richer the taste!
- Piping Bag Hack: If you don’t have a piping bag, a sturdy Ziploc bag makes an excellent substitute. Spoon the mashed potatoes into one corner, twist the bag to secure, and snip a 1-inch hole off the corner. This works perfectly for shaping those spooky tombstones.
- Achieve a Golden Crust: For that irresistible golden-brown crust on your potato tombstones, don’t be afraid to finish the pie under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch it closely though, as things can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a flash!
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan Tombstone Pie: This is easily achievable!
- Vegetarian: Replace the ground meat with 1.5 lbs of finely chopped mushrooms (cremini work well), a mix of lentils and finely diced root vegetables, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. A touch of smoked paprika can add a savory depth. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and butter in the mash.
- Vegan: Follow the vegetarian substitutions for the filling. For the mashed potatoes, use plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk) and vegan butter. You can also add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the potatoes for a cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat filling along with the garlic for a subtle warmth. For more heat, a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce can be incorporated.
- Cheesy Topping: For an extra layer of indulgence, mix 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese into the mashed potatoes before piping, or sprinkle it on top of the tombstones during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Elevate your potato topping by folding in cooked bacon bits, chopped chives, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a truly “loaded” experience.
- Herb Garden Variety: Experiment with different herbs! Sage pairs wonderfully with lamb, while more oregano or Italian seasoning could give a Mediterranean twist. Fresh herbs always provide a brighter flavor.
- Sweet Potato Topping: For a subtly sweeter and slightly different flavor profile, use sweet potatoes for the mash. Adjust the seasonings accordingly, perhaps adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. This could be perfect alongside these Pumpkin Deviled Eggs for a fall-themed meal.
- Different Meat Options: While traditionally made with lamb or beef, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning, as poultry can sometimes require a bit more flavor enhancement. You could even use leftover roast chicken or turkey, shredded and added to the gravy. For more meat-focused Halloween dishes, try these Mini Meatloaf Ghosts or Zombie Meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions
Your spooky Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie is the undeniable star of the show, but every star needs a great supporting cast! Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to round out your Halloween feast, ensuring a complete and unforgettable meal.
- Crisp Green Salad with a “Bloody” Vinaigrette: A simple mixed green salad provides a fresh, light contrast to the rich pie. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, a touch of Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and a splash of beet juice for a naturally red, slightly eerie “bloody” vinaigrette. It’s both refreshing and thematic!
- Garlic Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans tossed with a generous amount of minced garlic and a pat of butter are a classic, quick, and healthy side that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the pie. They add a pop of color and a fresh crunch.
- Crusty Bread or Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any leftover delicious gravy from the pie filling! A warm, crusty baguette or some soft dinner rolls are always a welcome addition to a hearty meal. You can even buy pre-made dough and shape them into “finger” rolls for extra spookiness – pair them with Severed Finger Cheese Sticks for a truly ghoulish spread!
- Roasted Root Vegetables: For another hearty and seasonal side, roast some root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, and carrots with a drizzle of olive oil, rosemary, and thyme. Their earthy sweetness complements the savory pie wonderfully, adding to that comforting autumn vibe.
- Cauldron of Spiced Apple Cider: To complete the seasonal theme, serve warm spiced apple cider. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to a slow cooker or pot, and let it simmer. It’s fragrant, comforting, and ties the whole spooky feast together. It also makes a great non-alcoholic option alongside other spooky beverages like Non-Alcoholic Halloween Punch.
- Halloween-Themed Desserts: After such a savory and fun meal, your guests will be ready for something sweet! Consider serving some easy, spooky desserts like Easy Vampire Donuts, Easy Witch Hat Cookies, or Easy Frankenstein Brownies. If you want something quick, Dracula Dentures are always a hit.
Storage & Reheating
Got leftovers of your delicious Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie? Excellent! This pie is often even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Here’s how to properly store and reheat it to maintain its spooky deliciousness.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Once the pie has cooled completely to room temperature (this is crucial to prevent bacterial growth), cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil directly in its baking dish. Alternatively, you can transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This is a fantastic make-ahead meal!
- Unbaked: If you want to prepare the pie in advance, assemble it without baking. Cover the unbaked pie tightly with plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- Baked: Allow the baked pie to cool completely. You can freeze the entire pie in its dish (covered tightly with plastic wrap and foil) or freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating:
- From the Refrigerator (Whole Pie):
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the potato topping from drying out or burning.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling around the edges. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes if you want to re-crisp the potato topping.
- From the Refrigerator (Individual Portions):
- Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the meat.
- Oven: Place individual portions in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
- From the Freezer (Whole Pie):
- Always thaw a frozen baked pie in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven. (Trying to reheat from frozen can lead to uneven heating, with the center still cold). Once thawed, follow the “From the Refrigerator (Whole Pie)” instructions.
- From the Freezer (Individual Portions):
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat using the microwave or oven methods for individual portions.
- Alternatively, you can reheat from frozen in the microwave by extending the heating time, but be prepared for a slightly longer process and potential hot spots.
With these storage and reheating tips, your Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie can be enjoyed for days, making meal prep for the busy Halloween season wonderfully convenient!
FAQ about Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie
Here are some frequently asked questions about our Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie to help you master this spooky sensation and impress all your ghoulish guests!
- Q: Can I make the Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
- A: Absolutely! This pie is a fantastic make-ahead option, perfect for holiday entertaining. You can assemble the entire pie (meat filling and potato topping) in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked pie for up to 2-3 months (see Storage & Reheating section above for more details). When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed, potentially adding a few extra minutes. Pre-cooked components like the mashed potatoes and meat filling can also be prepared separately and refrigerated for up to 3 days, making assembly on the day-of a breeze.
- Q: What kind of potatoes are best for the topping?
- A: For the best, fluffiest, and easiest-to-pipe mashed potatoes, we recommend starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Russets are excellent for a fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds offer a naturally buttery flavor and wonderful creaminess. Avoid waxy potatoes like red bliss, as they can become gummy when mashed. For an interesting twist, you could even use a mix of potatoes and parsnips or a Sweet Potato Topping for a slightly sweeter, earthier flavor!
- Q: I don’t have a piping bag for the tombstones. What can I use?
- A: No problem at all! A sturdy zip-top bag works perfectly as a substitute for a piping bag. Simply spoon the mashed potatoes into one corner of a large freezer bag, twist the top to secure, and then snip off a small, approximately 1-inch, corner of the bag. You can then pipe your tombstone shapes just as you would with a regular piping bag. Don’t stress about perfection; slightly jagged or rustic tombstones only add to the spooky charm of your Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie.
- Q: How can I make this pie vegetarian or vegan?
- A: It’s quite simple! For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef (or lamb) with an equal amount of finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or a good quality plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. For a vegan pie, combine these substitutions with plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and vegan butter for your mashed potato topping. You can also add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the potato mash for a cheesy flavor. This makes your Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie accessible to all dietary preferences!
- Q: My potato topping isn’t browning. What should I do?
- A: A golden-brown, slightly crispy potato topping is key! If your topping isn’t browning as much as you’d like by the end of the baking time, simply place the pie under a preheated broiler for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a very close eye on it, as broilers work quickly, and you don’t want the potatoes to burn. This burst of intense heat will give you that beautiful, desired color and texture on your edible tombstones. You can also achieve a deep, rich brown by brushing the potato topping with a little melted butter mixed with a touch of paprika before baking, which also adds a nice flavor. For other spooky baked goods, check out Funfetti Spiderweb Swirl Brownies or Ghost Cheesecake Brownies!
Final Thoughts on Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie
Well, there you have it – a truly ghoulishly good recipe for Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie that promises to be the talk of your Halloween gathering! We’ve journeyed through every step, from selecting the perfect potatoes to crafting those iconic edible tombstones, ensuring your dish is both frighteningly fun and incredibly flavorful. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that brings comfort, creativity, and a touch of spooky magic to your table.
We love how this recipe takes a beloved classic and gives it an imaginative twist, proving that hearty comfort food can also be delightfully playful. The rich, savory meat and vegetable filling, crowned with a creamy, fluffy potato topping, is a testament to the timeless appeal of Shepherd’s Pie. The added Halloween theme simply makes it irresistible, capturing the spirit of the season in the most delicious way possible. You’ll find that making this Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie is not only straightforward but also incredibly rewarding, especially when you see the delighted faces of your friends and family. Its unique presentation always sparks conversation and creates memorable moments.
This dish is a testament to easy, impactful entertaining. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to create a masterpiece that feels both impressive and welcoming. Whether you’re hosting a big Halloween bash or looking for a cozy, themed family dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s robust enough to satisfy hungry goblins and ghosts of all ages, and adaptable enough to suit various tastes. From the savory goodness of the filling to the artistic flourish of the tombstones, every element of this pie screams Halloween happiness.
So, as you gather your ingredients and prepare to embark on this culinary adventure, remember that the best recipes are those shared with joy and enthusiasm. Don’t forget, if you’re looking for other spooky treats to round out your feast, check out our other Halloween delights like Easy Spider Web Pizza or these chilling Easy Ghostly Marshmallow Pops!
We genuinely hope you enjoy creating and devouring this spectacular Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie. We’d absolutely love to see your creations! When you make this recipe, please share your photos and rave reviews. Tag us on social media, or even better, leave a comment below and let us know how your spooky masterpiece turned out. Your feedback inspires us to keep bringing you more delicious and creative recipes! And if you love this idea, do us a favor and save this recipe to your Pinterest board – it helps other home cooks discover this fun and tasty dish. Subscribe to our newsletter for more inventive recipes and tips straight to your inbox – you won’t want to miss our next culinary adventure! Happy haunting, and happy cooking!
Tombstone Shepherd’s Pie
Equipment
- Large pot
- Oven-Safe Skillet or Dutch Oven
- 9×13-inch baking dish,
- Piping bag or zip top bag
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Topping
- 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 tsp salt plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper plus more to taste
- 1 tbsp cream cheese or sour cream optional, for added tang and creaminess
Savory Meat Filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 lbs ground beef or ground lamb (80/20 lean ideal)
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 carrots peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine optional, adds depth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp fresh thyme chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 bay leaf
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley optional, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Place peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water about an inch above potatoes. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to boil, then simmer until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
- Return drained potatoes to hot pot and heat over low for 1-2 minutes to evaporate any moisture. Add milk, butter, remaining salt and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in optional cream cheese or sour cream if desired. Adjust seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven on medium-high heat. Add ground beef or lamb; cook and break up until browned and no pink remains (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat, leaving a coating on the pan.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables soften, about 5-8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over meat and vegetables; stir and cook 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste and thicken filling.
- Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using). Stir constantly to deglaze and scrape browned bits. Bring to simmer.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors and thicken gravy.
- Remove bay leaf. Stir in frozen peas and corn; cook 2-3 minutes until heated through. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour meat filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish (or 8×8 inch for thicker pie). Spread evenly.
- Transfer about two-thirds of mashed potatoes into a piping bag fitted with a wide star tip (or use a zip-top bag with corner snipped). Pipe rectangular tombstone shapes on filling, leaving spaces between. Use remaining mashed potatoes to fill spaces and spread around tombstones. Create peaks and valleys with a fork to resemble dirt.
- Optional: Brush tops of tombstones lightly with melted butter or milk for extra browning.
- Bake pie on a baking sheet for 25-35 minutes until filling bubbles and topping is golden brown. Use broiler for 2-3 minutes at end if more browning is desired—watch carefully.
- Remove from oven and let rest 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to resemble moss or grass.
