Why Make This Recipe
Cottage pie is a classic comfort food that warms the heart with its delicious layers of beef and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that can please the whole family. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, cottage pie provides not only great flavor but also a sense of nostalgia for many.
How to Make Cottage Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
- Spread the beef mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly to cover the beef mixture.
- Use a fork to create a pattern on the mashed potatoes if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting cottage pie!
How to Serve Cottage Pie
Cottage pie is best served warm. You can enjoy it straight from the baking dish or portion it out onto plates. Pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Cottage Pie
If you have leftovers, let the cottage pie cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to cover it tightly. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Cottage Pie
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- You can use leftover roast beef or chicken instead of ground beef.
- If you want a creamier topping, you can mix some cream cheese or sour cream into the mashed potatoes before spreading them on top.
Variations
You can make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You may also add other vegetables like peas or corn for extra texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make cottage pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cottage pie a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve.
2. What side dishes pair well with cottage pie?
Cottage pie pairs well with green salads, roasted vegetables, or a simple side of steamed broccoli or green beans.
3. Can I freeze cottage pie?
Yes, cottage pie freezes well. Just cover it tightly before freezing and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cottage Pie
Ingredients
For the beef filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for cooking Olive oil
For the topping
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened.
Cooking the Beef Filling
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
- Spread the beef mixture into a baking dish.
Topping
- Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly to cover the beef mixture.
- Use a fork to create a pattern on the mashed potatoes if desired.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.