Mum’s Traditional Cottage Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the warmth and comfort of home with this delightful Mum’s Traditional Cottage Pie recipe. Packed with savory minced meat and vegetables, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it's a timeless classic that will surely become a favorite in your household.
This traditional cottage pie recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing families together over hearty meals filled with love.
A Comforting Classic
Cottage Pie is often remembered fondly as a go-to meal for families looking for warmth and nourishment. This dish, originating from the British Isles, is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to repurpose leftover ingredients from your fridge. With a blend of savory minced beef and fresh vegetables, this pie delivers a delightful medley of flavors and textures that appeal to both children and adults alike.
Making Mum’s Traditional Cottage Pie is more than just cooking; it’s about creating a cozy experience. As the dish bakes, the aroma wafts through the kitchen, invoking nostalgia and possibly even some mouthwatering memories of mealtime gatherings. It's perfect for both weeknight suppers and weekend family feasts, ensuring that every bite is filled with love and satisfaction.
Nutritional Benefits
This cottage pie isn’t just comfort food; it also packs a nutritional punch. The combination of minced beef provides essential proteins and iron, while the carrots and peas contribute vital vitamins and minerals. By incorporating vegetables, you increase the dish's fiber content, making it a well-rounded meal that supports various dietary needs.
Moreover, this recipe is flexible. Vegetarians can swap the minced beef for lentils or a mixture of chopped mushrooms and nuts, creating a plant-based version that still feels hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re adhering to specific dietary preferences or aiming for a nutritious meal, this cottage pie can easily adapt without sacrificing taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Mum’s Traditional Cottage Pie is ideal for meal prepping, enabling you to create multiple servings that can be easily reheated during the week. Prepare the filling and mash the potatoes ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. Simply assemble and bake when you're ready to enjoy a fulfilling meal.
This dish also freezes beautifully. If you’re making it in bulk, consider portioning it into individual baking dishes before freezing. This way, on a busy night, you can pop a frozen homemade cottage pie into the oven and have a wholesome dinner ready in no time.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious cottage pie.
For the Filling
- 1 lb minced beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your cottage pie perfectly.
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, brown the minced beef over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened. Stir in the carrots and peas, then pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, and salt, then mash until smooth.
Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing them out with a spatula.
Let the cottage pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Cooking Tips
When browning your minced beef, make sure to do it in batches if your skillet is small. This ensures that the meat sears properly, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Additionally, don't skip on seasoning as it is vital to bringing out the rich taste of the meat and vegetables.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the filling. It adds depth and richness that elevates the dish further, making it feel gourmet even though it's simple to prepare.
Serving Suggestions
Mum’s Traditional Cottage Pie is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. A fresh accompaniment not only balances the heaviness of the pie but also adds a vibrant color to your plate.
For those who love a bit of heat, consider serving it with a side of pickled jalapeños or a spicy ketchup. The contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes and savory filling will ignite your taste buds, creating a truly memorable dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze cottage pie?
Yes, cottage pie freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping and storing it in the freezer.
→ How can I make it vegetarian?
You can substitute minced beef with lentils or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Mum’s Traditional Cottage Pie
Experience the warmth and comfort of home with this delightful Mum’s Traditional Cottage Pie recipe. Packed with savory minced meat and vegetables, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it's a timeless classic that will surely become a favorite in your household.
Created by: Riley Dawson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 1 lb minced beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, brown the minced beef over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened. Stir in the carrots and peas, then pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper, bring to a simmer, and cook for 20 minutes.
Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, and salt, then mash until smooth.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing them out with a spatula. Use a fork to create texture on the surface. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g