Classic Cottage Pie

We really enjoy our updated” version of cottage pie, a super hearty meat-and-potato dish that is the definition of comfort food. Cottage pie is a rustic dish that doesn’t have to be fancy to be delicious. The ingredients are simple, but with a few herbs and twists on conventional ingredients, it’s easy to make something humble taste extra special. This is a Sunday, sit down, slow down dinner with family before a new, crazy week begins. We’ve tried a few shortcuts and changes here and there to put our own spin on the usual recipe. We don’t let the changing seasons stop us from making a dish that we know the family loves!

We love adding cheese to the top of the pie for the final few minutes of baking; it adds a nice crust that offers flavor and texture. And since we pretty much know our mashed potato recipe by heart, it’s super easy to whip up a quick batch to go on top of the pie. A little bit of hands-on time goes a long way towards putting a meal on the table that is comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Classic Cottage Pie is a perfect blend of simplicity and heartiness. Whether you’re looking to impress your family with a traditional dish or simply want to enjoy a cozy meal, this pie checks all the boxes. The cheesy crust, succulent meat, and creamy mashed potatoes come together in a comforting harmony that’s hard to resist.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large saucepan
• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Potato masher
• Wooden spoon

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 pounds potatoes, any variety, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 large cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 2/3 cup cheddar cheese, divided (1/3, 1/3)
• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 (12 oz) package frozen peas and carrots
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup broth, vegetable or beef
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasonings
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1/2 cup half-and-half (more if needed)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into single tablespoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil water in a large saucepan. Place potatoes in water and boil for 20 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground meat and drain the excess fat. Return the meat to the pan and add the frozen vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, broth, Italian seasonings, minced garlic, and ketchup. Stir to incorporate and cook for 5-7 minutes.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add sour cream, butter, and half-and-half, along with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper (adjust to taste), and mash until smooth.
5. Mix 1/3 cup of cheese into the mashed potatoes.
6. Pour the meat mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon and spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the meat layer.
7. Bake for 25 minutes. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese begins to brown.

Tips for Success

• For extra creamy potatoes, ensure they are well-drained before mashing.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
• If the mashed potatoes are too thick, add a little more half-and-half to reach the desired consistency.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding a splash of red wine to the meat mixture for a deeper flavor.
• Swap out cheddar for a different type of cheese, like Gruyère, for a unique twist.
• For a vegetarian version, use lentils instead of meat and vegetable broth.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Details about calories, fats, proteins, and more can be provided based on specific dietary needs or preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pie and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes when you’re ready to cook it.

What can I serve with cottage pie? A fresh green salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

This Classic Cottage Pie is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will surely satisfy your comfort food cravings. We invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences with us. Enjoy every comforting bite!