Cottage Pie is a comforting dish made with ground beef and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This easy cottage pie recipe is perfect for a family dinner and delivers hearty flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Learn how to make cottage pie from scratch with this straightforward recipe. While often confused with Shepherd’s pie, which uses lamb, this version features ground beef, making it a beloved comfort food option.
Warm and Inviting Cottage Pie
Cottage Pie is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This dish, featuring a savory filling of ground beef and vegetables, is topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes.
When it comes to the best cottage pie with ground beef, the combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience. The golden crust on top contrasts beautifully with the hearty filling beneath, making it a favorite among families.
Easy Cottage Pie for Family Dinner
This easy cottage pie for family dinner is perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The preparation takes about an hour from start to finish, serving up to six people.
With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can learn how to make cottage pie from scratch. It’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also brings everyone together around the table.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key to a delicious cottage pie lies in its ingredients. Ground beef provides a rich base, while vegetables like carrots and peas add color and nutrition.
Seasoning with Worcestershire sauce and a hint of garlic enhances the overall flavor, ensuring that every bite is packed with taste. Don’t forget the creamy mashed potatoes, which are essential for that comforting finish.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results
To achieve the best results, start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. This step is crucial as it develops the meat’s flavor.
Next, incorporating the vegetables and allowing them to soften creates a well-rounded filling. Simmering the mixture with broth and seasonings thickens it, creating a luscious base for the mashed potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked to golden perfection, cottage pie is best served warm. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal that complements the richness of the pie.
For an extra touch, consider sprinkling shredded cheese on top before baking. This adds a delightful layer of flavor and a beautiful finish to your dish.
Cottage Pie vs Shepherd’s Pie
It’s important to note the distinction between cottage pie and shepherd’s pie. While both are similar in concept, shepherd’s pie traditionally uses lamb instead of beef.
This cottage pie recipe stands out as a comforting option, showcasing the versatility of ground beef. Whether you prefer one over the other, both dishes offer a hearty meal that warms the soul.
Easy Cottage Pie for Family Dinner
This cottage pie features a savory filling of ground beef cooked with vegetables and topped with a layer of fluffy mashed potatoes. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 2 pounds of potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Flavor: Mix in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Assemble the Pie: Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, smoothing with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting cottage pie!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
