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Classic Cottage Pie

A hearty and comforting dish made with savory ground beef, rich vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine British, Irish
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium pot (for potatoes)
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Potato masher or ricer
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Filling:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup red wine optional, for depth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

  • 2 lbs potatoes Yukon Gold or Russet
  • 1/2 cup milk warm
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional, for topping
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

For the Filling:

    Sauté Vegetables:

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

    Brown the Beef:

    • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked.

    Add Flavor:

    • Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Deglaze the pan with red wine, if using. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.

    Simmer:

    • Reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Add frozen peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

    For the Mashed Potato Topping:

      Prepare Potatoes:

      • Peel and cut potatoes into chunks. Place in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.

      Mash the Potatoes:

      • Drain the potatoes and mash with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. For an indulgent topping, stir in shredded cheddar cheese.

      To Assemble and Bake:

        Layer the Filling:

        • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the beef filling evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish.

        Add the Topping:

        • Spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling, spreading it to the edges to seal. Use the back of a fork to create decorative ridges on top.

        Bake:

        • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and the filling is bubbling. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

        Notes

        Make Ahead: Assemble the pie a day in advance and bake just before serving.
        Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
        Variations: Use sweet potatoes for the topping or try a vegetarian version with lentils and mushrooms.
        Keyword Casserole, comforting recipes, Cottage pie, ground beef casserole, mashed potato topping