Cottage Pie (Or Shepherd’s Pie)

Cottage pie, often called shepherd’s pie when made with lamb, is a comforting British classic. It’s a hearty dish featuring a flavorful ground meat base topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes, then baked to golden perfection. The savory filling is typically made with beef (for cottage pie) or lamb (for shepherd’s pie), mixed with vegetables like carrots and peas, and cooked in a rich gravy. This warm, filling meal is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, offering layers of flavor and a satisfying balance between the creamy potatoes and savory meat filling.

Cottage Pie (or Shepherd’s Pie) Recipe

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (for cottage pie) or ground lamb (for shepherd’s pie)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the mashed potato topping:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a crispy top)

Instructions:

1. Make the mashed potatoes: Boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Prepare the filling: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef (or lamb) and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Add vegetables and seasoning: Stir in the carrots, peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens and the vegetables are tender.
4. Assemble the pie: Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the filling. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra crispy layer.
5. Bake: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
6. Serve: Let the pie cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy this cozy, classic cottage pie (or shepherd’s pie) with its perfect combination of savory meat and creamy mashed potatoes!