Cottage Pie Recipe

Discover how to make a classic, hearty Cottage Pie—a comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. This recipe combines a savoury ground beef filling with a creamy mashed potato topping for a satisfying and flavourful meal.

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 Tbsp water
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4-5 sprigs thyme, leaves finely chopped
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 1 sprig rosemary, leaves finely chopped
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 cup chicken stock or water
• Optional: ½ cup frozen peas, ½ cup frozen corn

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 6 medium-sized yellow-fleshed potatoes
• 1 tbsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• 1 cup heavy cream (35%)
• ½ cup hot milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping

1. Peel and Boil Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into halves or quarters. Place them in a pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 tbsp of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until fork-tender (ensure the water tastes slightly salty).
2. Steam and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot over low heat to steam out excess moisture. Mash using a hand masher or potato ricer.
3. Add Cream and Butter: Fold in the hot cream, milk, and butter until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Beef Filling

1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, mix the ground beef with baking soda and water. Set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Melt butter in a large frying pan. Add onions, season with a little salt, and sweat until softened. Stir in carrots and celery, season again, and continue cooking until soft but not browned. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Cook the Beef: Add the beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, seasoning with a pinch of salt.
4. Build Flavour: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and flour. Cook for 1 minute. Add chicken stock or water and simmer until the liquid has thickened slightly to create a delicious sauce.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Layer the Dish: Spread the beef filling evenly in the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle with frozen corn and peas (if using).
2. Top with Mashed Potatoes: Carefully spread the mashed potatoes on top of the filling using a spatula, ensuring an even layer.
3. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃). Bake the cottage pie until the top is lightly browned, about 20-25 minutes.

Tips for the Best Cottage Pie

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary elevate the flavor of the beef filling.
• Golden Top: For extra browning, broil the pie for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Customize the Veggies: Add your favorite frozen vegetables, such as peas or green beans, for variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Difference Between Cottage Pie and Shepherd’s Pie?

Cottage Pie traditionally uses ground beef, while Shepherd’s Pie is made with ground lamb.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the pie, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bake just before serving.

Can I Freeze Cottage Pie?

Absolutely. Once assembled, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

This Cottage Pie is a delicious way to warm up any evening with its comforting layers of savoury beef and creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for meal prep or family dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favourite!