Cottage Pie

Cottage Pie

A comforting, hearty dish made with savoury beef mince, vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes—perfect for a cosy family meal.

Serves: 4-6

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Beef Mince Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 500g beef mince
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, and carrots)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 800g potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 50g butter
• ½ cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated cheese (optional, for topping)

Method

Prepare the Beef Mince Filling:

1. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Add the beef mince and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in the beef stock and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

Make the Mashed Potato Topping:

1. While the mince mixture is simmering, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender (about 15 minutes).
2. Drain well, then mash with butter and milk until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble and Bake:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C.
2. Spoon the beef mince mixture into an ovenproof dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Top with the mashed potatoes, using a fork to create texture.
4. Sprinkle with grated cheese if using.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

Serve:

1. Let the Cottage Pie rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve with a side of steamed greens or a fresh salad.

Tips:

• For extra flavour, add a splash of red wine to the mince mixture while simmering.
• Swap out beef mince for lamb mince to make a traditional Shepherd’s Pie.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the mashed potatoes for a richer taste.

This classic Kiwi Cottage Pie is a warm and satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!