Cottage Pie With Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a hearty, homey dish that’s pure comfort in every bite. This traditional British favorite features savory ground beef cooked with vegetables in a rich gravy, then topped with creamy garlic mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for family dinners or cozy weekends.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
2. Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken, optional)
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup butter or vegan butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
3. Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Boil the potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes, until tender. Drain well. In a small pan, melt butter and lightly cook garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Mash the potatoes with the garlic butter and milk until creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Beef Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add onion, garlic, and carrots, and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and flour. Pour in beef broth and let simmer for 10 minutes, until thickened. Stir in peas and season to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top and spread to cover completely. Fluff the surface with a fork for texture. Sprinkle cheese on top if desired.
Step 4: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
Step 5: Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop into bowls and enjoy warm.
4. Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 460
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 25g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 590mg
5. Tips
- Substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a more traditional shepherd’s pie flavor.
- Add a splash of red wine to the filling for deeper flavor.
- Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for up to 24 hours.
- Serve with steamed green beans or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
