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–+ servings

Halloween Spooky Casserole

This hearty Halloween casserole combines savory ground meat with colorful diced vegetables, layered under a creamy mashed potato topping. It’s baked until bubbling and golden, creating a comforting, visually appealing dish perfect for celebrating spooky season with friends and family. The aroma of smoky spices fills the house, making it both a feast and a festive centerpiece.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: 420kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 6

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Casserole Dish
  • Oven thermometer
  • Spatula
  • Spoon

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey or lentils for vegetarian option
  • 2 cups diced carrots, celery, onions or zucchini, bell peppers
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke optional
  • 3 cups mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for topping
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Cook the ground meat in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and fragrant, about 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  • Add the diced vegetables to the skillet with the meat and cook until they soften slightly, around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in the paprika, cumin, chili powder, and a splash of liquid smoke if using, then cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Spread the mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes over the meat layer, smoothing with a spatula for an even layer.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the potato layer.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbling around the edges and the top is golden and crispy.
  • Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes to achieve a more crispy top, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes; this helps the layers set for easier serving.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm, enjoying the rich, smoky aroma and hearty textures.

Notes

Feel free to adapt the vegetables and spices to your taste. For a vegetarian version, substitute lentils for meat and add extra veggies.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 900mg | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 150mg | Iron: 3mg