Cottage Pie is a classic comfort food dish featuring a savory beef mince base topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. The combination of flavorful beef, vegetables, and cheesy mashed potatoes makes it a favorite for all ages.
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Place the potatoes into a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until soft, then drain.
Heat a pan, add the vegetable oil, then the onions and carrots. Sauté until golden brown. Add the mince and separate any lumps with the back of a spoon. Fry the mince until browned.
Preheat your oven to 190 degrees.
While the potatoes are still warm, mash them with a masher. Add the butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth, then add the milk. Mash further until you achieve a fluffy mash mix.
Once the mince is browned, add the garlic and oregano. Add 1 1/2 cups of water, then the gravy granules. Simmer the mince until the gravy has thickened and the mince is coated with the sauce.
Transfer the mince to an oven-proof dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, covering the mince. Flatten with a fork. Sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven until golden brown.
For extra flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mince while cooking.
Ensure the mashed potatoes are smooth and fluffy for an even layer on top of the mince.
Let the cottage pie rest for a few minutes after baking to make it easier to serve.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef mince with lamb mince or even turkey mince for a different flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cottage pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven until heated through and golden brown.
Can I freeze cottage pie?
Yes, you can freeze cottage pie. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
What can I serve with cottage pie?
Cottage pie pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for regular potatoes to give the dish a slightly sweeter flavor.
I have been a professional South African chef for 18 years, now teaching kids & adults how to cook by using their instincts. I am self-taught and have an extreme passion for various international cuisines. I have fallen in love with teaching others the skills that I have learnt, inspiring them through creative cooking.
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