Cottage pie is a classic comfort food that warms the soul and fills the belly. This dish features a rich filling of ground meat, vegetables, and savory herbs, all topped with a fluffy layer of mashed potatoes. It’s a perfect family meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether served on a chilly night or at a family gathering, this hearty dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cups peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 20 minutes and a cooking time of 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the pie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 20g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and carrots; sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in ground meat; cook until browned.
- Add tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce; mix well.
- Pour in beef broth; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in peas and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer meat mixture to a baking dish.
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or lamb. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms. You can also use store-bought mashed potatoes to save time.
Serving and Pairings
Cottage pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. A side of crusty bread can also complement the dish perfectly, allowing you to soak up the delicious gravy.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cottage pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cottage pie can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the meat can make it tough.
- Not seasoning enough can lead to bland flavors.
- Using watery mashed potatoes can result in a soggy topping.
- Failing to let the pie cool slightly before serving may cause it to fall apart.
- Skipping the simmering step can lead to unbalanced flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of potatoes for a creamier mash.
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Let the cottage pie rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Experiment with different vegetables in the filling.
- Top with cheese for a cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I make cottage pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and mash potatoes in advance. Assemble the pie and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This can save time on busy evenings.
Is cottage pie the same as shepherd’s pie?
No, cottage pie uses beef or lamb, whereas shepherd’s pie is traditionally made with lamb. Both are delicious and share similar preparation styles.
How can I make a gluten-free cottage pie?
To make a gluten-free version, ensure that your broth and any sauces used are gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free flour for thickening if needed.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver and will work perfectly in the filling.
What can I serve with cottage pie?
Cottage pie is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
Conclusion
Cottage pie is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Its hearty filling and creamy topping make it a favorite among families everywhere. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or at a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Cottage Pie
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 cups peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and carrots; sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in ground meat; cook until browned.
- Add tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce; mix well.
- Pour in beef broth; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in peas and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer meat mixture to a baking dish.
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
