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Cottage Pie

A classic British comfort food, this cottage pie recipe blends rich ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes and savory herbs to create a satisfying meal that recalls traditional flavors.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: British
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Filling
  • 1 lb high-quality ground beef mince Choose an 85/15 blend for moist and flavorful filling.
  • 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce Adds umami flavor to the meat.
  • 1 cup onions, chopped Sauté in the beginning.
  • 1 cup carrots, diced Adds sweetness.
  • 1 cup celery, diced Enhances the filling.
  • 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour To thicken the gravy.
  • 2 cups beef stock Use high-quality stock.
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves Fresh herbs preferred.
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped For aromatic flavor.
  • 1 pinch fresh nutmeg, grated Adds a warm background note.
For the Mashed Potatoes
  • 2 lb starchy potatoes (like Russets) For a fluffy texture.
  • 1/2 cup milk Warm before adding.
  • 1/2 cup butter Warm for best texture.
  • to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.

Method
 

Preparation of Fillings
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large pan, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
  3. Add ground beef and brown thoroughly with a rich color.
  4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, and let it simmer with the meat.
  5. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and combine until incorporated.
  6. Pour in beef stock and bring it to a simmer to thicken.
  7. Add thyme, rosemary, and nutmeg, then mix well and remove from heat.
Preparation of Mashed Potatoes
  1. Peel and chunk the starchy potatoes into even sizes.
  2. Boil potatoes until fork-tender and drain well.
  3. Mash while adding warmed milk and butter until creamy.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Spread the meat filling into a baking dish.
  2. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the meat, sealing the edges.
  3. Use a fork to create ridges on the surface for browning.
  4. Bake in the oven for 30–40 minutes until the top is golden.
  5. Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Pair with a green salad and vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Allow slightly to cool before slicing for cleaner servings.