Craving a hearty cottage pie recipe? This comforting British classic layers savoury minced beef with vegetables, rich gravy, and fluffy mashed potato topping. Whether you’re new to cottage pies or looking for a trusted go-to, this recipe delivers. For more cosy weeknight dinners, check out my Beef Stroganoff and Pizza Frittata recipes. According to WikiChefs, cottage pie has been warming homes since the late 18th century, making it a timeless comfort dish.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (minced beef)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream, for richer mashed potatoes)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and carrots and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the carrots start to soften.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the frozen peas and stir to combine. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Cottage Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading them out with a spatula to cover the filling completely. Use the back of a spoon or a fork to smooth the top, or create a decorative pattern.
- (Optional) For a golden top, you can sprinkle a little grated cheese over the mashed potatoes.
4. Bake:
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
- If desired, you can broil the top for an additional 2-3 minutes to get an even more golden, crispy finish.
5. Serve:
- Let the cottage pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy!
This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner and can be served with a side of greens or a simple salad.
