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Cottage Pie Recipe

Cottage Pie Recipe

This cottage pie is a classic comfort dish made with a rich beef filling and creamy mashed potato topping. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for family meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Australian
Calories: 435

Ingredients
  

For the beef filling
  • 500 g beef mince
  • 1 brown onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large carrot grated
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp plain flour
  • 1 to 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cups beef stock
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 cup peas
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the mashed potato
  • 800 g potatoes
  • 2 tbsp dairy-free butter
  • 1/4 cup dairy-free milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Frying pan
  • Medium saucepan
  • Casserole dish
  • Potato masher
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat a pan over high heat with a little oil and cook the beef mince, breaking it apart and allowing it to brown fully until any released moisture has evaporated.
  2. Remove the beef from the pan, then cook the onion until soft before adding the grated carrot and garlic, sautéing until everything becomes tender and fragrant.
  3. Return the beef to the pan and stir in the flour, cooking briefly before adding the tomato paste, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and red wine, letting it cook down to remove the alcohol flavor.
  4. Add the peas and beef stock, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat and simmering until thick and rich.
  5. While the filling cooks, boil peeled and chopped potatoes in water until soft, then drain thoroughly and return them to the pot.
  6. Add dairy-free butter, salt, and pepper, then gradually mix in the dairy-free milk while mashing until smooth and creamy.
  7. Transfer the beef filling into a casserole dish and spread it evenly, then layer the mashed potatoes on top and smooth them out completely.
  8. Use a fork to score the top of the potatoes, then bake until golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
  9. Allow the pie to rest briefly before serving so it holds its shape when sliced.

Notes

This cottage pie is a classic comfort dish with a rich beef filling and creamy mashed potato topping. The savory gravy and vegetables create a balanced, hearty flavor in every bite.
The dairy-free mashed potatoes make it lighter while still smooth and satisfying.
It’s a budget-friendly recipe that’s perfect for family meals or meal prep. The pie stores well and tastes even better the next day after the flavors develop.