This classic Homemade Cottage Pie is a comforting dish featuring a savory ground beef filling, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners and can easily be made ahead for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• For the Filling:
  • 1 lb ground beef (or lamb for a traditional Shepherd’s Pie)
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth (I have also used a cup of tomato sauce, or a can of tomato soup, instead of beef broth for a change in flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Mashed Potatoes:
  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   • Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
   • Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Beef Filling:
   • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
   • Add the diced onion, garlic, and carrots to the skillet, cooking until the vegetables are softened (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.
   • Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring until the mixture thickens. Add the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until the filling is thick and flavorful.
3. Assemble the Cottage Pie:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Spread the beef filling evenly in a large baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, spreading them to cover the filling completely. For an extra crispy top, use a fork to create small ridges on the potatoes.
   • If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes for added richness.
4. Bake:
   • Bake the cottage pie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
5. Serve:
   • Let the cottage pie cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side.

This recipe is a cozy, hearty meal that’s perfect for feeding the whole family!