Cottage Pie, the beef-based cousin of Shepherd’s Pie (which is traditionally made with lamb), is one of the most beloved comfort foods from the United Kingdom. With a rich, savory beef and vegetable filling simmered in a hearty gravy and topped with buttery mashed potatoes, this dish is simple yet deeply satisfying. Perfect for cozy family dinners, entertaining on a chilly evening, or freezing ahead for a quick weeknight meal, Cottage Pie is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.
INGREDIENTS:
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 large onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
2 medium carrots, diced
1 lb. beef mince*
1 can (10 oz.) chopped tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato purée
1 1/4 cup beef stock
1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs (fines herbes or blend of your choosing)
1 tablespoon Bisto Gravy Granules (optional for thicker gravy)
Dash Worcestershire sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the topping
2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/4 cup butter, melted
4 tablespoons milk, warmed
Salt and pepper, to taste
* Ask your butcher to grind beef with a thick blade, or use a home grinder for best texture. Otherwise, choose high-quality ground beef.
METHOD
Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly oil a 2-quart casserole dish.
Heat oil or butter in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and carrots; cook until softened, about 6–7 minutes. Stir in beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Add tomatoes, tomato purée, beef stock, herbs, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 30 minutes. For a thicker gravy, stir in Bisto and simmer 1–2 minutes more.
Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with mustard, butter, and milk until smooth. Season to taste.
Spoon beef mixture into the casserole dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top, fluffing with a fork for texture. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and filling is bubbling.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
VARIATIONS
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Replace some potatoes with parsnips or celery root for a lighter, earthy topping.
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Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas after simmering the meat mixture.
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Mix 1 cup aged cheddar cheese into the potato topping for extra richness.
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Make individual cottage pies in ramekins for freezer-friendly, single-serve meals.
