Individual lamb and pumpkin cottage pies

Individual lamb and pumpkin cottage pies feature savoury lamb mince spiced with coriander, cumin, and cinnamon, topped with creamy mashed pumpkin and cheese. These hearty pies are baked until golden and perfect for a comforting meal.

23 Jan 2026
Cook time 55 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp dried coriander
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp chili powder
1 lb lamb mince
1 can canned tomatoes
1/2 cup chicken gravy
2 tbsp tomato puree
8 cups pumpkin
1/2 cup cheddar cheese
2 tbsp pine nuts

Individual lamb and pumpkin cottage pies are a delightful and hearty meal that's perfect for any season. Combining the savory flavors of minced lamb, aromatic spices, and the natural sweetness of pumpkin, these little pies pack a delicious punch. Topped with a cheesy finish and a sprinkle of pine nuts, they're sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the Lamb Mixture:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in coriander, ground cumin, cinnamon, and chili powder. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the lamb mince to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the lamb is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes (with their juice), chicken gravy, and tomato puree. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Prepare the Pumpkin Topping:
- While the lamb mixture is simmering, place the diced pumpkin in a large pot and cover with water.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook the pumpkin until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Drain the pumpkin and return it to the pot. Mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Pies:
- Distribute the lamb mixture evenly into individual ovenproof dishes or ramekins.
- Spoon the mashed pumpkin over the lamb mixture, spreading it out evenly.

5. Add the Cheese and Nuts:
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese and pine nuts evenly over the pumpkin layer.

6. Bake the Pies:
- Place the individual dishes on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pine nuts are golden brown.

7. Serve:
- Carefully remove the pies from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

These individual lamb and pumpkin cottage pies offer a satisfying and flavorful dining experience. The combination of tender lamb, aromatic spices, and creamy pumpkin topped with cheddar cheese and pine nuts makes for a unique and delicious meal. Serve them hot and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors with friends and family.

Individual lamb and pumpkin cottage pies FAQ:

What is the baking time for the individual lamb and pumpkin cottage pies?

Bake the individual pies in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pine nuts are golden brown.

How do I know when the lamb mixture is fully cooked?

The lamb mince is fully cooked when it is browned and no longer pink, typically taking about 7-10 minutes of cooking in the skillet.

Can I substitute other vegetables for pumpkin in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute pumpkin with other vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash for similar texture and flavor. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

What is the best way to store leftovers of these pies?

Store leftover cottage pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What pan size should I use for these individual pies?

Use individual ovenproof dishes or ramekins; each should hold about 1 cup of filling. This size allows for even baking and portion control.

Tips:

- Be sure to finely chop the onion and garlic to ensure they blend well with the minced lamb.

- For a smoother filling, simmer the canned tomatoes and tomato puree until they reduce slightly.

- Pre-cook the pumpkin by roasting or steaming to ensure it achieves a tender consistency before mashing.

- Taste the lamb mixture before assembling the pies to adjust seasoning as needed.

- Use ramekins or individual pie dishes for a more elegant presentation and easier serving.

- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the pumpkin mash for a consistent cheesy layer.

- Toast the pine nuts briefly in a dry pan to enhance their flavor before sprinkling on top.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 560kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 13g
Fat 40g

Individual lamb and pumpkin cottage pies