How To Make Cottage Pie
A classic British dish, loaded with vegetables and our signature steak mince.
Perfect for sharing with the family.
Cottage pie is a beloved British classic, known for its comforting and hearty qualities. This dish consists of a savoury filling made from ground beef cooked with onions, carrots, peas, and often seasoned with herbs like thyme and rosemary. The rich, flavorful meat mixture is then topped with a generous layer of creamy mashed potatoes, which forms a golden crust when baked. Originating as a way to utilise leftover meat, cottage pie has become a staple in homes and pubs alike, enjoyed for its simplicity and satisfying nature. Often accompanied by a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, cottage pie is not only a meal that warms the body but also evokes a sense of nostalgia and homeliness, making it a perennial favourite and perfect for sharing with the family.
What To Serve With Cottage Pie
Cottage pie is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides to create a balanced meal. To complement the rich, savoury flavours of the pie, consider serving it with a fresh, crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing contrast. Steamed or roasted vegetables such as green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts provide additional nutrients and textures. A side of buttered peas or sautéed mushrooms can also enhance the meal's overall appeal. For a comforting touch, you might include a serving of crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any extra gravy. To round off the meal, indulge in an apple pie or cherry crumble with custard for a sweet finish.
What Is The Difference Between Cottage Pie and Shepherd's Pie?
Cottage pie and shepherd's pie are both classic British comfort foods, but they differ primarily in the type of meat used. Cottage pie is made with ground beef, while shepherd's pie uses ground lamb. Both dishes feature a savoury filling of minced meat cooked with vegetables like carrots and onions, all topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown.
The name "shepherd's pie" reflects the use of lamb, as shepherds traditionally herded sheep, whereas "cottage pie" generally refers to a pie made with any type of meat, though beef is most common. Despite these differences, both pies share a similar preparation method and offer a hearty, satisfying meal.
How Long Does Cottage Pie Last In The Fridge
Cottage pie can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly. To maximise its shelf life, allow the pie to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminium foil. Keeping the pie at a consistent refrigerator temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below is crucial to prevent bacterial growth. When reheating, ensure the pie is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. If you need to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the pie, where it can last for up to 2 to 3 months.
How To Reheat Cottage Pie
Reheating cottage pie can be done effectively in either the oven or the microwave, depending on your preference and time constraints. For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If the pie is in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminium foil to prevent the top from drying out and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until it is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating. Alternatively, if using a microwave, transfer a portion of the pie to a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with small vents. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then check and stir the filling to ensure even heating. Continue to heat in 1-minute intervals until the desired temperature is reached. Regardless of the method, always ensure the pie is piping hot throughout before serving.
Shopping list
- 450g lean minced beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 225g onion, diced
- 175g carrot, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 300ml chicken stock
- 450g chopped tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1kg Albert Bartlett potatoes
- 100ml whole milk
- 80g Cotswold butter
- 25g Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Method
Heat a large pan with oil and then add the minced beef, cooking until brown. Add the garlic, carrot and onion to the pan and cook for around 5 minutes until soft.
Add the chicken stock to the pan, followed by the Worcestershire sauce, tomato ketchup, chopped tomatoes and bay leaf. Bring to a boil and cook on a low heat for an hour.
In a separate bowl, boil peeled potatoes until soft. Then, drain the pan with the potatoes using a colander and return the contents to the pan. Mash the potatoes and add the milk and butter.
Once the beef mixture is cooked, transfer it to an oven-proof dish and then top with the mashed potatoes. Cook in an oven that's been preheated to 220°C and cook for around 20 minutes.
Remove the dish from the oven and add the grated cheese to melt under the grill for a couple of minutes. Plate up and serve with your choice of vegetables.
Ingredients
Directions
Heat a large pan with oil and then add the minced beef, cooking until brown. Add the garlic, carrot and onion to the pan and cook for around 5 minutes until soft.
Add the chicken stock to the pan, followed by the Worcestershire sauce, tomato ketchup, chopped tomatoes and bay leaf. Bring to a boil and cook on a low heat for an hour.
In a separate bowl, boil peeled potatoes until soft. Then, drain the pan with the potatoes using a colander and return the contents to the pan. Mash the potatoes and add the milk and butter.
Once the beef mixture is cooked, transfer it to an oven-proof dish and then top with the mashed potatoes. Cook in an oven that's been preheated to 220°C and cook for around 20 minutes.
Remove the dish from the oven and add the grated cheese to melt under the grill for a couple of minutes. Plate up and serve with your choice of vegetables.