The Best Homemade Cottage Pie Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade cottage pie is comfort food at its best, with a hearty filling and creamy mashed potatoes that make every bite satisfying. You’ll love it because it’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients you probably already have, and is perfect for feeding a hungry family.
- Rich and flavorful: The savory beef-and-vegetable filling is packed with herbs and spices for maximum taste.
- Creamy topping: Smooth, buttery mashed potatoes create the perfect golden crust.
- Family favorite: It’s a complete meal in one dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Recipe
This classic homemade cottage pie recipe is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Made with savory ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a timeless favorite that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add grated cheese to the mashed potatoes before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Large pan
- Baking dish
- Potato masher
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: British
Serving: 6
Nutrition
This homemade cottage pie is packed with nutrients and flavor. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
What To Serve With It
I’ve found that this cozy cottage pie pairs perfectly with simple sides like steamed green beans or a crunchy side salad. A glass of red wine or even a cold cider can really bring out the flavors of the dish. Don’t hesitate to mix and match—sometimes, I even add a warm dinner roll for an extra touch.
Side Dishes
When I think about cottage pie, I always imagine it paired with something fresh or crisp to balance its rich, hearty flavors. Garlic bread is my go-to—it’s buttery, garlicky, and perfect for soaking up every last bit of that savory filling. Roasted vegetables, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, add a sweet, caramelized touch that complements the pie’s depth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also works wonders, cutting through the richness with a revitalizing crunch. These sides keep the meal balanced without stealing the spotlight from the star of the table—your delicious cottage pie.
Beverage Pairings
Besides pairing cottage pie with the perfect sides, finding the right drink can really elevate the meal. For wine choices, I’d go for a medium-bodied red like a Pinot Noir or a Merlot—they’re smooth and won’t overpower the rich, savory flavors. If you prefer white wine, a Chardonnay with its buttery notes works surprisingly well. As for beer selections, a malty brown ale or a classic stout complements the meaty, hearty filling without being too heavy. For something lighter, a crisp lager balances the dish nicely. Remember, it’s all about what you enjoy, so don’t be afraid to experiment! Cheers to a cozy, tasty meal.
