Cottage Pie: A Classic British Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction

Cottage pie is a classic British dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This hearty dish is the perfect comfort food, with a rich and savory filling of ground beef and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. The dish is easy to cook and is perfect for a cozy night in with the family.

Ingredients

To make this delicious cottage pie recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 4 cups mashed potatoes
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple instructions to make your own cottage pie at home:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain the excess fat and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, carrots, and garlic until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

5. Add the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix well with the vegetable mixture.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Transfer the beef mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.

8. In a separate bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, butter, and milk. Mix well.

9. Spread the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture in the baking dish, making sure to cover the entire surface.

10. Use a fork to create some texture on the mashed potatoes.

11. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

12. Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving.

13. Serve hot with a side of peas.

Variations

Cottage pie is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas to try:

• Vegetarian Cottage Pie: Omit the ground beef and replace with lentils, mushrooms, or your favorite meat substitute.
• Shepherd’s Pie: Replace the ground beef with ground lamb to make a classic shepherd’s pie.
• Cheesy Cottage Pie: Add a layer of grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Sweet Potato Topping: Replace the mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes for a healthier and more colorful option.

Conclusion

Cottage pie is a classic British dish that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty dish is packed with flavor and is sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious combination of ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes.

FAQ

What is Cottage Pie?

Cottage Pie is an English dish made with ground beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef. However, the flavor and texture of the dish will be different.

Can I make Cottage Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Cottage Pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.

Can I freeze Cottage Pie?

Yes, you can freeze Cottage Pie. Allow the dish to cool completely before covering it tightly with foil and placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw the Cottage Pie in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, you can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. The sweet potatoes will give the dish a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Can I add cheese to the mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can add cheese to the mashed potatoes. Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but you can use any type of cheese that you like.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain off any excess liquid.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, you can add wine to the sauce. Red wine works best and will give the dish a rich flavor.

Can I add Worcestershire sauce?

Yes, you can add Worcestershire sauce. It will give the dish a slightly tangy flavor.

Can I add gravy to the dish?

Yes, you can add gravy to the dish. It will add moisture and flavor to the Cottage Pie.