Cottage Pie

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   • Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
   • Cook the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
   • Mash the potatoes with the milk and butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Filling:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
   • Stir in the diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the meat mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
   • Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and frozen peas. Stir well to combine.
   • Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Cottage Pie:
   • Transfer the meat filling to a large baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
   • Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat filling, spreading them out to cover the filling completely.
   • Use a fork to create a pattern on the top of the mashed potatoes (this will help them brown nicely).
   • If using, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top.
4. Bake the Cottage Pie:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
   • Let the pie rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
• Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the meat filling when adding the broth.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or green beans to the meat filling.
• If you prefer a smoother mashed potato topping, use a potato ricer.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Ground Beef/Lamb: High in protein and iron, essential for muscle growth and oxygen transport.
• Vegetables: Provide essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health.
• Potatoes: A good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.

Dietary Information:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free milk and butter alternatives for the mashed potatoes.

Conclusion:

Cottage Pie is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. With its flavorful meat filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s a favorite that never goes out of style. Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the satisfying flavors and textures of this beloved recipe!