Cottage Pie is a comforting dish made with ground meat, usually beef, and rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how the crispy potato topping meets the hearty filling. It’s perfect for busy weeknights—quick to make and even better for leftovers. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: For a fluffy topping, use starchy potatoes like Russets. I find that they mash well. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen mashed potatoes as a quick substitute.
Ground Beef: While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily switch to ground lamb for a traditional touch. For a lighter option, ground turkey or veggie crumbles work well too.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps cook the onions. If you prefer, avocado oil or vegetable oil can be substituted since both have a similar high smoke point.
Milk: You can use whole milk for creaminess, but any milk like almond or oat milk will work too. Just ensure they are unsweetened to keep the savory flavor.
Herbs: Fresh thyme provides great aroma, but if it’s unavailable, dried thyme works fine. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning can also add a nice touch.
How Do I Make the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes?
Making smooth, creamy mashed potatoes is key for that cottage pie topping. Here’s how to achieve that perfect consistency:
- After boiling your potatoes until soft, drain them well to get rid of excess water that can make them mushy.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for smoother texture. Adding hot butter and warm milk helps keep them creamy.
- Season generously with salt and pepper before mashing for an even flavor throughout.
- For a richer taste, mix in a little garlic powder or cream cheese, but that’s completely optional.
How to Make Cottage Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mashed Potatoes:
- 1 1/2 lbs (700g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk (more if needed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Meat Filling:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 carrot, diced (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or a few fresh thyme sprigs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 45 minutes of cooking and baking time, for a total of roughly 1 hour. You’ll spend some time boiling and mashing the potatoes, sautéing the vegetables, and baking the pie. It’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Boil The Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large pot, boil the peeled and chopped potatoes in salted water until soft. This should take about 15-20 minutes. You want them tender enough to easily mash.
2. Make The Mashed Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Add in the butter and milk, mashing until smooth and creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
3. Cook The Meat Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned.
4. Add Flavor:
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1-2 minutes. Then, pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Finalize The Filling:
Add the frozen peas and diced carrot, if you’re using it. Sprinkle in the thyme, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference.
6. Assemble The Cottage Pie:
Transfer the hearty beef mixture into a baking dish or casserole. Spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly over the top, using a fork to create some texture for a nice crust.
7. Bake To Perfection:
Put the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and lightly browned. Then, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your warm and comforting Cottage Pie with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for Cottage Pie?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground lamb for a richer flavor. Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter options, and for a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This Cottage Pie is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Just check the labels to make sure there are no hidden gluten-containing ingredients.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for quicker reheating.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can enhance the filling with other veggies such as corn, green beans, or bell peppers. Just be sure to chop them small and cook them along with the onion and garlic to ensure they soften properly.
