SHEPHERDS PIE IN THE CROCK-POT RECIPES

Steps:

• Brown the meat with the onion, garlic, celery and carrots until ground beef is no longer pink; drain any fat.
• Mix corn, sweet peas, salt, black pepper, tomato paste and water (fill up the 6 oz tomato paste can for measurement) into the meat mixture; stir well.
• Spray the inside of the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray; pour meat mixture into the bottom of crockpot; press into the bottom of the crockpot so it is dense and even.
• Spread leftover mashed potatoes (evenly) over the meat mixture.
• Sprinkle the mashed potatoes with paprika (optional, for garnish).
• Cook on low 6 hours (high 3 hours); then, remove the lid for 30 minutes to allow the potatoes to brown.
• Sprinkle pie with fresh, chopped parsley (optional, for garnish).
• VARIATION 1: CHEESY SHEPHERD'S PIE--Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the pie by pressing the cheese over the meat mixture, and then layering the mashed potatoes on top of the cheese; Cook same length, same way.
• VARIATION 2: RUNZA/CABBAGE SHEPHERD'S PIE--Substitute shredded cabbage (2 cups) for the peas and corn; cook same length, same way.

Steps:

• Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook for 10-15 minutes or until tender. Drain, then shake potatoes over low heat for 1 minute to dry. Mash potatoes, gradually adding butter and enough milk to reach desired consistency. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper., Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. , Add tomato paste; cook for 2 minutes. Add the mushrooms, carrots, broth, wine, Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until most of the liquid is evaporated. Stir in peas. Season with remaining salt and pepper., Transfer beef mixture to a greased 4-qt. slow cooker. Spread mashed potatoes over top. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until bubbly. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and cook 10 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. Just before serving, sprinkle with parsley.