Cottage Pie (Beef)
Cottage Pie (Beef) is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes into one satisfying casserole. This classic recipe is perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a taste of home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. The rich beef filling, enhanced by garlic, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce, pairs beautifully with the fluffy mashed potato topping, making this dish a timeless favorite.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Cottage Pie (Beef) recipe stands out because it balances flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. Using everyday ingredients you likely already have, it delivers a robust and savory filling that’s not too heavy or greasy. The addition of carrots and peas adds a subtle sweetness and pop of color, while tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce deepen the umami notes. With clear instructions and tips, this recipe is foolproof for both novice and experienced cooks. Plus, it’s adaptable and perfect for making ahead, freezing, or customizing to your taste.
What You’ll Gather
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup green peas, frozen or fresh
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Before You Start: Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan – for cooking the beef and vegetables.
- Medium saucepan – to prepare mashed potatoes if not using leftovers.
- Baking dish (8×8 inch or similar) – to assemble and bake the pie.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring and spreading.
- Oven mitts – for safely handling the hot dish.
- Mixing bowl – optional, for combining mashed potatoes with butter.
Cottage Pie (Beef) Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Heat your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with your spatula as it cooks. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, carrots, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the carrots start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for a minute to deepen the flavors. Then pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until slightly thickened, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in the peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping
If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, prepare them now by boiling peeled potatoes until tender, then mashing with butter, salt, and pepper until creamy. You can swap in mashed sweet potatoes for a vibrant twist.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the beef and vegetable filling into your baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Dollop the mashed potatoes on top and spread to cover the filling completely. For an extra golden, bubbly finish, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If you love a crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes—just watch closely!
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the Cottage Pie (Beef) rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice. Serve hot with your favorite side or a simple green salad.
Variations for Dietary Needs
- Low Carb: Use cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes for a lighter topping.
- Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, celery, or corn to the filling for more texture and flavor.
- Cheese-Free: Omit the cheddar cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free version.
Chef’s Notes
- Tomato Paste: Adds depth and richness to the filling. Don’t skip it!
- Worcestershire Sauce: Check ingredients for a suitable option if you want to avoid anchovies; otherwise, it enhances umami perfectly.
- Mashed Potatoes: For creamier potatoes, add a splash of milk or cream while mashing.
- Cheese Topping: A sprinkle of cheesy scalloped potatoes gratin inspiration can elevate the mashed potato crust beautifully.
- Make Ahead: The filling can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated to save time.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, cover the assembled unbaked pie tightly with plastic wrap and foil; it will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual. To reheat cooked Cottage Pie (Beef), cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Your Top Questions
Can I use ground lamb instead of beef for this Cottage Pie?
Absolutely! Ground lamb works wonderfully and gives a richer, slightly gamey flavor. Just swap the beef for lamb and follow the same steps.
What’s the difference between Cottage Pie and Shepherd’s Pie?
Shepherd’s Pie traditionally uses ground lamb, while Cottage Pie is made with ground beef. Both have the same mashed potato topping and vegetable base.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the pie up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a day before baking. This makes it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
What’s a good side dish to serve with Cottage Pie (Beef)?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely to balance the richness. For something heartier, try roasted root vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad.
Next Up in Your Queue
- Beef Chops With Grilled Peaches – a sweet and savory meat dish to try next.
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Gratin – a creamy and cheesy potato side that complements cottage pie perfectly.
- Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes – a delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes with a nutty twist.
That’s a Wrap
Cottage Pie (Beef) is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for weeknights, yet special enough for guests. The layers of savory beef, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes come together to make a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing. Whether you’re making this for your family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe that delivers on flavor, comfort, and convenience. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!
Share on Pinterest
Cottage Pie (Beef)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with your spatula as it cooks. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the carrots start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for a minute to deepen the flavors. Then pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until slightly thickened, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in the peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, prepare them now by boiling peeled potatoes until tender, then mashing with butter, salt, and pepper until creamy. You can swap in mashed sweet potatoes for a vibrant twist.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the beef and vegetable filling into your baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Dollop the mashed potatoes on top and spread to cover the filling completely. For an extra golden, bubbly finish, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If you love a crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes—just watch closely!
- Let the Cottage Pie (Beef) rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice. Serve hot with your favorite side or a simple green salad.
Notes
- Tomato paste adds depth and richness to the filling; don’t skip it!
- For creamier mashed potatoes, add a splash of milk or cream while mashing.
- The filling can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated to save time.
