Traditional Cottage Pie
A heartwarming dish combining savory minced beef and creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 500 g lean minced beef Opt for grass-fed if possible for richer flavor.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped A sweet variety like Vidalia will enhance sweetness.
- 2 medium carrots, finely diced Make them uniform to ensure even cooking.
- 100 g peas Fresh or frozen, these little gems add vibrancy.
- 200 ml beef stock Homemade is ideal, but low-sodium store-bought works too.
- 2 tbsp tomato purée Adds depth and color; Squeezable tubes are convenient.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Gives it that umami kick!
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
For the Topping
- 900 g starchy potatoes, peeled and chopped Maris Piper is preferable; they mash beautifully!
- 50 g butter Room temperature for smooth blending.
- 100 ml milk Whole milk or cream for a rich topping.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Season incrementally; taste as you go!
Instructions
Preparation
- Finely chop the onion and dice the carrots evenly to ensure they cook uniformly and blend well into the meat mixture.
Cooking the Filling
- Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the minced beef. Cook until no pink remains (about 5-7 minutes), breaking it up with a spoon as you go.
- Stir in the chopped onions and carrots into the browned meat and cook until softened, around 3-4 minutes.
- Add the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and beef stock, stirring to create a rich, flavorful base.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently until thickened, about 15 minutes. Add in the peas just before finishing.
Preparing the Mash
- While the filling simmers, boil the peeled potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain, then mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling and Baking
- Transfer the meat filling into a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top.
- Use a fork to texture the surface so it crisps nicely during baking.
- Place the pie in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) and bake for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy around the edges.
Notes
Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the filling and mash ahead, refrigerating them separately. Just assemble and bake when you're ready. Leftovers can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days.