Escondidinho de Carne Moída (Ground Beef Shepherd's Pie)

Ingredients

In this adaptation to the cuisine of the Americas, we incorporate ingredients commonly found in North and South American cuisines. The addition of cheddar cheese to the mashed potatoes gives them a creamy and slightly tangy taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. Additionally, the use of a blend of spices in the ground beef filling adds a unique twist to the traditional Brazilian recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Escondidinho, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. 4.
   Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, place the potato chunks in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
6. 6.
   Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   In a baking dish, spread half of the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom. Top with the cooked ground beef mixture, spreading it out into an even layer.
8. 8.
   Cover the ground beef layer with the remaining mashed potatoes, smoothing the top with a spoon.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become waterlogged and affect the texture of the mashed potatoes.
• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
• Cheddar cheese — Opt for sharp cheddar cheese to add a stronger flavor to the mashed potatoes. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a twist on the traditional recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture.
• To make the mashed potatoes extra creamy, use a potato ricer or a food mill to mash them.
• If you prefer a crispy top, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking until it turns golden brown.
• Serve the Escondidinho de Carne Moída with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables to add a refreshing element to the meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Escondidinho de Carne Moída hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

To present the Escondidinho de Carne Moída beautifully, use an oven-safe baking dish that can be brought straight to the table. Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for an appealing touch. Serve individual portions on plates or in small ramekins for an elegant presentation.