italian shepards pie (crockpot base)

How To Make italian shepards pie (crockpot base)

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  Step 1
  In a large skillet add your 3 tbsp of olive oil and heat to high, add your casings removed sausage and saute till no longer pink.
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  Step 2
  Prepare your crock pot by drizzling 1 tbsp olive oil and coating it. Dice all your veggies and and place in crock pot. I usually do this the night before except for the mushrooms and keep them in water till the next morning when I'm ready to prepare this.
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  Step 3
  Add your dried seasonings over the veggies and finally add your sausage. Pour in your beef stock. Cover and cook on high for 3-1/2 - 4 hours or on low for 6-1/2 - 7 hours. This will ensure nicely cooked vegetables without them becoming mushy. When you come home, remove the shepard's pie base mixture from the crock pot and using a slotted spoon (you don't want all the excess juices), add the mixture to a pre coated 13 x 9 casserole dish). Add in your instant potato flakes, your Parmesan cheese and finally your fresh parsley. Stir thoroughly and set aside to cool.
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  Step 4
  As the base is cooling, let's start on the decadent mashed potato topping! Peel and cube your potatoes and place in pan with enough water and a few pinches of salt till nice and tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked till tender, drain and return potatoes back to pan. Using a hand masher, mash larger chunks etc. Add remaining ingredients except the Parmesan cheese and egg into the hot potatoes. Using a hand mixer now, whip till nice and creamy. Now add your egg & Parmesan cheese and whip again. Set aside. Preheat oven to 375F.
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  Step 5
  Spread the whipped mashed potatoes over the base mixture and spread evenly.
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  Step 6
  Sprinkle Pecorino Romano cheese along with the paprika and pepper
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  Step 7
  bake for 35-45 minutes till topping is nicely golden brown. Remove from oven and let stand 10 minutes. This would be a perfect time to slice up some fresh tomatoes to go with this, or toss together a salad. Cut into squares, try and contain yourself, heaven's knows I had to!!!
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  Step 8
  Plate onto plate and serve with your favorite salad or vegetable, grab yourself a glass of wine and enjoy!! Knowing you made this amazing gourmet meal in 1 hour on a work week night!! *cheers*
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