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Cottage Pie

Classic British Cottage Pie

A comforting British cottage pie made with savory ground beef, vegetables, rich gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes baked until golden and bubbling.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: British
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g minced beef a little fat content helps flavour — don’t buy the leanest option on the shelf
  • 1 onion finely diced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery sticks diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato purée
  • 1 tbsp plain flour
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 400 ml beef stock
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or a couple of fresh sprigs
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tbsp oil for browning
For the topping:
  • 800 g potatoes Maris Piper or another floury variety, peeled and chopped
  • 50 g butter
  • 75 ml warm milk
  • 50 g grated cheddar (Optional)

Notes

For the best results, let the cottage pie rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Make sure the mashed potato topping is spread evenly and lightly browned for a delicious golden crust.