Cottage pie

Cottage pie features a hearty ground beef filling enriched with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This comforting dish is baked until golden and bubbly, making it a satisfying choice for family meals.

21 Jan 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

3 potatoes
1/4 cup milk (1% fat)
2 tbsp chives
1 short spray cooking spray oil
1 onion
1 carrot
1 large zucchini
2 garlic cloves
14 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1 tbsp tomato puree
1 can canned tomatoes
1/2 cup water
Cottage pie

Cottage pie is a classic, comforting dish that combines a savory ground beef filling with a smooth, creamy mashed potato topping. It's a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to use various vegetables and seasonings. Perfect for a family dinner, this hearty meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and chop the potatoes into evenly-sized chunks.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them until smooth.
- Add the milk and chopped chives to the mashed potatoes, stirring until well combined. Set aside.
2. Cook the Meat and Vegetables:
- While the potatoes are cooking, preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Lightly coat it with cooking spray.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the diced carrot, zucchini, and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it's browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the tomato puree and canned tomatoes (with their juice).
- Add the water and mix everything until well combined.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste if desired.
3. Assemble the Cottage Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the meat mixture, spreading them out evenly with a spatula.
- Use a fork to create patterns on the surface of the mashed potatoes, if desired. This helps the top layer to crisp up nicely.
4. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
5. Serve:
- Remove the cottage pie from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional chopped chives if desired.

Your delicious homemade cottage pie is now ready to be served! With its flavorful meat filling and creamy mashed potato topping, this wholesome dish is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.

Cottage pie FAQ:

What is the ideal baking time for Cottage Pie?

Bake the Cottage Pie at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. You're looking for a golden brown top and bubbling filling.

How do I know when the potatoes are done cooking?

The potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a fork and feel tender, typically after about 15-20 minutes of boiling.

Can I make substitutions for the vegetables in this Cottage Pie?

Yes, you can substitute or add different vegetables such as peas, corn, or green beans based on your preference.

How should I store leftovers of Cottage Pie?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

What type of ground beef is best for Cottage Pie?

Using ground beef with an 80/20% fat ratio is ideal, as it provides enough flavor while preventing the filling from becoming too greasy.

Cooking Tips:

- To save time, you can peel and boil the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you're ready to mash them.

- For a creamier mash, consider using a potato ricer or food mill instead of mashing by hand.

- Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or corn to the meat filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

- For a golden-brown finish, broil the cottage pie for the last 5 minutes of baking.

- Use leaner ground beef if you prefer a less fatty version of the dish.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 430kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 10g
Fat 20g

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