Cottage Pie
Try this Cottage Pie recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Cottage Pie recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup skim milk
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3/4 cup frozen peas
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 4 oz 50% reduced fat sharp cheddar shredded (i used cabot)
- 2 lbs uncooked 95% lean ground beef
- salt and pepper to taste, divided
- 2 cups reduced sodium beef broth
- 2 1/2 lbs peeled and chopped potatoes
- 2 tablespoons light butter (i used land o’lakes)
- Carbohydrate 13.0130409358794 g
- Cholesterol 0.30625 mg
- Fat 0.537644687491867 g
- Fiber 1.73799688053487 g
- Protein 3.05513062492525 g
- Saturated Fat 0.16093687499827 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (418g)
- Sodium 95.2876250828056 mg
- Sugar 11.2750440553445 g
- Trans Fat 0.0588214062475256 g
- Calories 65 calories
Step-by-step
- Place the ground beef in a large walled skillet or saute pan and bring over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking the meat up into small pieces until browned.
- When the meat is cooked through, reduce the heat to medium and add the onions and carrots. Stir to combine and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the peas and stir together. Cook for another minute and then add the garlic, flour and tomato paste. Stir to combine and cook for a minute until the flour is blended.
- Add the broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme and bay leaves and stir together. Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and is coating the meat and vegetables.
- Remove the bay leaves and transfer the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 casserole dish. Spread evenly and set aside.
- Pre-heat the oven to 425 degrees.
- Place the chopped potatoes at the bottom of a large pot and cover them in salted cold water. Place the pot on the stove, covered, and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, cook the potatoes for about 5 minutes and then drain the water.
- Spread the potatoes out on a clean, dry surface for about 5 minutes to allow the steam to escape.
- Transfer the potatoes to a mixing bowl and mash them until smooth.
- Add the butter, milk and about ½ of the cheese and stir/mash until well combined.
- Add some salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to the casserole dish, spreading them in an even layer over top of the meat mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes until the casserole is cooked through and the mashed potato peaks start to turn golden.
A Cozy Cottage Pie: My Weeknight Winner
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling deadlines at the office and keeping my two little ones happy, finding time for anything beyond basic survival feels like a luxury. But even a busy schedule deserves a comforting, delicious meal, and that's where my Cottage Pie recipe comes in. It’s become a weeknight staple – a hearty, flavorful dish that's surprisingly easy to whip up even on the busiest days. Forget takeout; this is my go-to for a satisfying and home-cooked dinner, perfect for family meals or a quiet evening in.
I've always loved cottage pie, that classic combination of tender meat and creamy mashed potatoes. But let's be honest, the traditional recipe can be time-consuming. My version streamlines the process without sacrificing any flavor. I use lean ground beef for a healthier twist, and I’ve swapped out some of the heavier ingredients for lighter alternatives, while still maintaining that rich, savory taste that makes cottage pie so irresistible. The secret is in the simple additions like Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and a touch of tomato paste, all working together to create depth of flavor.
The best part? This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Add mushrooms, zucchini, or even some leftover roasted root vegetables for an extra layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless! You can also adjust the spice level to your liking. A dash of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat, or perhaps a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving – the possibilities are truly endless.
This isn’t just a meal; it’s a feeling. The aroma of the baking pie, the warmth of the creamy mashed potatoes, and the satisfying richness of the meaty filling – it’s the epitome of comfort food. It reminds me of simpler times, cozy evenings spent with family, and the joy of creating a delicious meal from scratch. And that, my friends, is something that no amount of takeout can ever replicate.
Beyond the Recipe: This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it’s a symbol of self-care, a moment of peace amidst the chaos of modern life. Taking the time to cook a delicious meal for myself and my loved ones feels rewarding, and the resulting meal is a tangible representation of that care. It’s a reminder that even amidst the whirlwind of everyday life, we can find moments of calm and pleasure in the simple things, like a homemade cottage pie.
My Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the meat. Overcooked beef can become dry and tough, so make sure to cook it just until it's browned and cooked through.
- Use good quality ingredients. The flavor of the cottage pie will greatly benefit from using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Don't be afraid to experiment. This recipe is a great base for your own creativity! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices.
So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the simple joy of a perfectly crafted cottage pie. It's a dish that's guaranteed to warm your heart (and your belly!).
