Cottage Pie with a Difference: A Savory Delight
Cottage Pie is a traditional English dish that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations, yet this recipe introduces a delightful twist that elevates it from a simple comfort food to a show-stopping centerpiece for any dinner table. Bursting with flavor and boasting a rich, savory filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this Cottage Pie with a Difference will have your friends and family raving about your culinary prowess.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 40 minutes |
| Cook Time | 50 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Rating | 5/5 (6 reviews) |
| Keywords | Meat, European, Oven, < 4 Hours |
| Calories per serving | 822.1 |
Ingredients
Creating this delicious Cottage Pie requires a blend of fresh ingredients that come together to create a filling that is not only hearty but also incredibly satisfying. Here is a comprehensive list of what you will need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 500 grams |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 medium, finely chopped |
| Carrots | 3 medium, cubed |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
| English mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Tomato puree | 1 tablespoon |
| Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Potatoes | 2 large, peeled and diced |
| Cheddar cheese | 75 grams, grated |
| Butter | 25 grams (plus extra for topping) |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Tomatoes | 2 medium, sliced |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 tablespoon, grated |
Nutritional Information
This recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 822.1 |
| Total Fat | 32.3 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 13.9 grams |
| Cholesterol | 116.9 mg |
| Sodium | 316.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 93.3 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.2 grams |
| Sugars | 9.6 grams |
| Protein | 41.6 grams |
Instructions
With the ingredients gathered, it’s time to embark on the delightful journey of preparing this Cottage Pie with a Difference. The process is straightforward yet requires attention to detail to achieve that perfect blend of flavors.
The Filling
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Sauté the Aromatics: Start by finely chopping the onions and garlic. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pan and gently fry until they become transparent, which should take about 3 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor for your pie.
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Cook the Carrots: Next, cube the carrots into small pieces and add them to the pan with the onions and garlic. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the carrots begin to soften slightly. This process not only enhances the sweetness of the carrots but also adds a lovely color to the filling.
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Combine the Ingredients: Now, add the lean ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, ensuring it is no longer pink. Incorporate the English mustard, tomato puree, and oregano into the mixture, stirring well to combine. The mustard adds a tangy kick that distinguishes this Cottage Pie from others.
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Adjust Consistency: If the mixture appears too dry, feel free to add a splash of water to ensure it remains moist and flavorful. Once everything is well combined and cooked through, transfer the filling to an ovenproof casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
The Topping
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Prepare the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the peeled and diced potatoes. Cook them until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Mash the Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk and half of the butter, and mash until smooth and creamy. Then, mix in the grated cheddar cheese until it is fully incorporated. This cheesy mashed potato topping is what truly sets this recipe apart.
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Assemble the Pie: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the filling in the casserole dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out, creating an even layer that will form a delightful crust as it bakes.
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Add the Finishing Touches: For an extra layer of flavor and presentation, slice the tomatoes and arrange them on top of the mashed potato layer. Place a small knob of butter on each tomato slice; this will help them roast beautifully in the oven. If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an added crunch and rich flavor.
Baking
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature of 180°C (350°F). Place the assembled pie into the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the tomatoes are cooked through and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time will be irresistible and will have everyone eagerly anticipating the meal.
Serving
- Enjoy Your Cottage Pie: Once baked, allow the pie to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to settle slightly, making it easier to serve. Spoon generous portions onto plates, ensuring everyone gets a satisfying scoop of both the hearty filling and the creamy topping. Serve with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Cottage Pie with a Difference is not just a meal; it’s an experience that embodies warmth and comfort, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. The blend of flavors and textures, coupled with the rich history of the dish, makes it a beloved classic that never goes out of style. With a preparation and cook time totaling just 1 hour and 30 minutes, it’s an achievable culinary adventure that yields a dish loved by many.
Whether you are preparing this for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this recipe will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. Serve it up with pride, and watch as your loved ones savor every bite, asking for seconds and perhaps even the recipe itself.
Remember to enjoy the cooking process, as it is just as rewarding as the final dish. Happy cooking!
