A good cottage pie is the definition of comfort food. Rich savoury mince topped with creamy mashed potato and baked until golden, it's a family favourite that's both filling and budget-friendly. This easy version is packed with vegetables and makes a perfect weeknight dinner during the cooler months.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 500g lean beef mince
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 250ml beef stock
- 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Potato Topping
- 1kg potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 60g butter
- 125ml milk
- 100g cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Grease a medium baking dish.
Step 2
Place the potatoes into a large pot of salted water.
Bring to the boil and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until tender.
Drain and mash with the butter and milk.
Season to taste and set aside.
Step 3
While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan.
Cook the onion for 5 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 4
Add the mince and cook until browned.
Stir in the grated carrots and peas.
Step 5
Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef stock and mixed herbs.
Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6
Transfer the mince mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Spread the mashed potato evenly over the top.
Sprinkle with grated cheese.
Step 7
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Allow to stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Add sweetcorn for extra sweetness.
- Replace beef mince with lamb mince for a traditional shepherd's pie.
- Mix grated sweet potato into the mash topping.
- Add mushrooms to the filling for extra flavour.
Tips
- Grated vegetables are a great way to add nutrition for picky eaters.
- Make the pie ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze before baking for an easy future meal.
Conclusion
Family-friendly cottage pie is one of those recipes that never goes out of style. With a rich savoury filling and a golden cheesy potato topping, it's a simple meal that brings everyone to the table.
