Cottage Pie

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Medium
Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal

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Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or lamb for Shepherd’s Pie)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup beef stock

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried rosemary

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

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

• ½ cup whole milk (or cream for richness)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.

2. Drain & Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.

2. Add Garlic & Meat: Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned (5-7 minutes).

3. Season & Simmer: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour in beef stock and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Add Peas: Mix in frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

1. Layer the Pie: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the meat mixture into a large baking dish (9×13 inches).

2. Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat. Use a fork to create ridges for a crispy top.

3. Optional Cheese Topping: Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top (if using).

4. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.

Step 4: Serve

Let the Cottage Pie rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

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Tips & Variations

• Make Ahead: Assemble the pie a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with lentils or mushrooms.

• Freezing: Freeze unbaked Cottage Pie for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.

Enjoy this hearty, comforting Cottage Pie—perfect for family dinners!