Cottage Pie is the definition of comfort food. It’s rich, filling, and full of savory flavor with a smooth and creamy potato topping. This version is simple, budget-friendly, and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s a great way to use ground beef and can easily be customized to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Onion, finely chopped
Carrots, diced
Garlic, minced
Tomato paste
Worcestershire sauce
Beef broth
Frozen peas
Olive oil or butter
All-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Salt and pepper
Potatoes, peeled and chopped
Milk
Butter
Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Directions
Make the mashed potatoes: Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and mash with milk and butter until smooth. Season with salt and set aside.
Cook the beef filling: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and carrots, cooking until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Brown the beef: Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
Build the sauce: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and a spoonful of flour if using. Pour in beef broth and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Stir in peas and remove from heat.
Assemble the pie: Spread the beef mixture into a baking dish. Top evenly with mashed potatoes. Use a fork to create ridges for extra crispiness. Add cheese if using.
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and filling is bubbling.
Serve: Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings. Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 40 minutes Total time: 1 hour
Variations
Shepherd’s Pie: Use ground lamb instead of beef for a traditional Shepherd’s Pie.
Cheesy Topping: Mix shredded cheddar into the mashed potatoes or sprinkle on top before baking.
Low-carb version: Substitute mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower.
Add herbs: Add thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor.
Vegetarian option: Use lentils or meatless crumbles in place of beef.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. For freezing, assemble the pie in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.
FAQs
What is the difference between Cottage Pie and Shepherd’s Pie?
Cottage Pie uses ground beef, while Shepherd’s Pie uses ground lamb. The rest of the preparation is very similar.
Can I make Cottage Pie ahead of time?
Yes, it can be fully assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance. Just bake when ready to serve.
Can I freeze Cottage Pie?
Absolutely. You can freeze it either before or after baking. Be sure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
What kind of potatoes are best for the topping?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for smooth, creamy mashed potatoes.
How do I thicken the meat filling?
You can stir in a little flour or cornstarch, or simply let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, if you’re short on time, instant mashed potatoes are a convenient substitute.
What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add corn, green beans, celery, or mushrooms to the meat filling.
Can I use ground turkey instead?
Yes, ground turkey is a lighter alternative and works well in this recipe.
Why is my Cottage Pie watery?
This may happen if the beef filling has too much liquid. Let it simmer longer or add a thickening agent.
What size baking dish should I use?
An 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe, depending on how thick you want each layer.
Conclusion
Easy Cottage Pie is a timeless comfort food that’s simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With a flavorful meat filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s the kind of meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or prepping ahead for the week, this classic dish is always a winner.
Easy Cottage Pie is a comforting and hearty dish featuring savory ground beef and vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection—perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 cup frozen peas
1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup milk
3 tbsp butter
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Boil chopped potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and mash with milk and butter until smooth. Season with salt. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and carrots, sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and flour (if using). Mix well and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Pour in beef broth and simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened. Stir in frozen peas. Remove from heat.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Spread beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and spread evenly. Use a fork to create ridges on top. Sprinkle cheese on top if using.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use ground lamb for a traditional Shepherd’s Pie variation.For a cheesy twist, mix shredded cheddar into the mashed potatoes.Mashed cauliflower can be used for a low-carb topping.Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth of flavor.This dish can be made ahead and frozen before or after baking.
