Classic Cottage Pie Recipe – Hearty and Comforting

Classic Cottage Pie Recipe

Cottage Pie is a comforting, hearty dish that’s been a staple in British cuisine for generations. It features seasoned ground beef and vegetables topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes, baked to perfection. This classic dish is perfect for family dinners, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the diced carrots, peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top and fluff with a fork for texture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

For a smoother finish, pipe the mashed potatoes onto the pie. Add a bit of grated cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor. You can also substitute ground lamb to make Shepherd’s Pie.

FAQs

• Can I make cottage pie in advance? Yes, you can prepare it up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Can I freeze cottage pie? Yes, once assembled, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
• How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Can I use other vegetables? Yes, feel free to add corn, green beans, or any other vegetables you like.

Conclusion

Cottage pie is a classic, comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. With its savory ground beef filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it delivers all the warmth and satisfaction you need. Try this recipe and enjoy a taste of traditional comfort food that never goes out of style!