Easy English Cottage Pie Recipe

Here’s a simple and comforting English Cottage Pie recipe—perfect for a cozy meal and easy to make with everyday ingredients:

Easy English Cottage Pie

Ingredients:

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground lamb for a shepherd’s pie)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large carrot, diced

• 1/2 cup frozen peas

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup beef broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp oil or butter

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 2–3 tbsp butter

• 1/4 cup milk (or more for creaminess)

• Salt to taste

• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes

   • Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15 minutes).

   • Drain and mash with butter, milk, and salt until smooth. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Filling

   • Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.

   • Add onion and carrot; cook until soft (5–6 minutes).

   • Add garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned.

   • Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

   • Add beef broth and simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.

   • Stir in peas and remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Pie

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish (8×8 or similar size).

   • Spoon mashed potatoes over the top and spread evenly.

   • Optional: Sprinkle with shredded cheese.

4. Bake

   • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and filling is bubbling.

5. Serve

   • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pairs well with a green vegetable or crusty bread.

Would you like a version with a twist—like sweet potato topping or vegetarian filling?