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The Ultimate Classic Cottage Pie with Cheesy Herb Mash

A spoonful of rich cottage pie filling being lifted from a skillet topped with golden, browned mashed potatoes.
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Make this hearty, comforting cottage pie featuring a rich ground beef filling and a creamy, cheesy mashed potato topping. It is a perfect, traditional British comfort food dinner for your family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the mashed potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold, salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain well.
  2. Mash the potatoes with the warm milk and butter until smooth. Stir in the cheddar cheese and fresh chives. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off excess fat.
  5. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
  6. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens, about 5 to 8 minutes.
  7. Stir in the frozen peas. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. This savory beef pie filling is ready.
  8. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
  9. Spread the mashed potato topping evenly over the meat filling in the skillet. Use a fork to create texture on the surface for better browning.
  10. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the potato topping is golden brown. This baked dinner recipe is best served hot.

Notes

  • For a make ahead casserole, assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
  • This recipe freezes well. Cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
  • If you prefer a traditional topping without cheese or herbs, simply use butter and milk in the mash.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://miameal.com/classic-cottage-pie-recipe-cheesy-herb-mash/