Cottage pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory minced meat and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, cottage pie is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will warm your heart and fill your stomach!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 40 minutes, making a total time of 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) of cottage pie contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 20g
This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and diced carrots, cooking until soft.
- Stir in the peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.
- Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, boil the chopped potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes, then mash them with milk and butter until smooth.
- Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish, then top with mashed potatoes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version. If you prefer, use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor and added nutrients.
Serving and Pairings
Cottage pie pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables. A glass of red wine or a light ale can complement the rich flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cottage pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cottage pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the meat can make it dry.
- Not seasoning the meat mixture adequately can result in bland flavor.
- Using too much liquid in the filling can make it soggy.
- Under-mashing the potatoes can lead to a lumpy topping.
- Not allowing the pie to set before serving may cause it to fall apart.
Helpful Tips
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best mash.
- Add cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
- Make cottage pie a day in advance for enhanced flavors.
- Top the pie with breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
FAQs
Can I make cottage pie ahead of time?
Yes, cottage pie can be prepared in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What is the difference between cottage pie and shepherd’s pie?
Cottage pie is made with beef, while shepherd’s pie traditionally uses lamb.
Can I freeze cottage pie?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I make a vegetarian cottage pie?
Replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a tasty vegetarian version.
What can I serve with cottage pie?
Cottage pie pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Conclusion
Cottage pie is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, cottage pie is a dish that never disappoints. Enjoy every bite!
Cottage Pie
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 lbs potatoes peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and diced carrots, cooking until soft.
- Stir in the peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.
- Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, boil the chopped potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes, then mash them with milk and butter until smooth.
- Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish, then top with mashed potatoes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
