Cottage Pie

Here’s a warm, comforting, and traditional Cottage Pie recipe — a British classic made with savory ground beef, vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping!

🥧 Classic Cottage Pie

Note: Cottage Pie = made with beef, while Shepherd’s Pie = lamb.

📝 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 large carrot, diced

• 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary

• 1 cup beef broth

• ½ cup frozen peas

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: splash of red wine or a pinch of paprika for depth

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled & chopped

• 4 tbsp butter

• ¼–½ cup milk or cream (adjust for creaminess)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy crust)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15–20 minutes).

2. Drain and mash with butter, milk/cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

3. Set aside.

2. Cook the Meat Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté onions, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened (5–7 minutes).

3. Add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart.

4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, salt, and pepper.

5. Pour in beef broth (and wine if using). Simmer for 10–15 minutes, until thickened slightly.

6. Stir in peas and cook 2 minutes more. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Spoon meat mixture into a baking dish (8×8 or similar).

3. Spread mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing with a spatula.

4. (Optional) Sprinkle cheese on top or drag a fork across the potatoes for a rustic texture.

4. Bake

• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top.

• Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end if you want a crispier top.

5. Rest & Serve

• Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

🍽️ Serving Ideas:

• Green peas or a side salad

• Pickled onions or chutney for contrast

• A cold pint or warm tea to keep it British