Homemade Beef Cottage Pie: A Cozy Classic
45
min
198
Calories
6g
Fats
18g
Carbs
16g
Protein
Discover the comfort of homemade Beef Cottage Pie, featuring savory beef, tender vegetables, and a crispy potato topping. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this gluten-free recipe is both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Creating the right temperature is crucial for achieving a perfectly baked Beef Cottage Pie with a delectably crispy topping. It's one of those blissful moments in cooking when you know something wonderful is about to happen in your kitchen.
Pro Tip: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Warm up a large skillet over medium heat and pour in the cooking oil. Toss in your finely chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Let them sizzle and dance in the pan until they're just translucent — about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is foundational; it's where your pie begins to build its deep flavors and enticing aromas.
Pro Tip: Keep the heat at medium to avoid browning the aromatics too quickly.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Set the aromatic mixture aside, and in the same skillet, add your ground beef. Cook it until it's wonderfully browned, breaking it apart with your spoon. Then, meticulously discard any excess fat — a key step for a filling that's rich in taste yet not overly greasy. This is where the heartiness of the dish starts to take shape, promising a satisfyingly meaty layer in every bite of the pie.
Pro Tip: Lean beef minimizes excessive grease.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Now, reintroduce the aromatics to the skillet along with the Worcestershire sauce and thyme, stirring well to combine. Add the frozen vegetables and gravy to bring everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. This melding of ingredients ensures every spoonful of the pie is bursting with flavor.
Pro Tip: Frozen vegetables add convenience and a pop of color.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Prep your large casserole dish with a spritz of cooking spray. Pour in the beef and vegetable mix, spreading it evenly. Then, with great care, layer the mashed potatoes on top, smoothing them out to create your pie's final layer. This step is almost meditative, as you craft the smooth surface that will soon turn into a golden, crisped canopy in the oven.
Pro Tip: A wet spoon helps spread the mashed potatoes smoothly.
Step 6: Bake and Broil
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over your pie, then bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. For that irresistible golden crust, turn on the broiler for a few minutes at the end. This is where the magic happens, transforming your careful assembly into a bubbly, golden masterpiece that's as delightful to behold as it is to consume.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the pie under the broiler to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the top is perfectly bronzed, remove your Beef Cottage Pie from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes; this patience is rewarded as it sets up just right, making serving easier and ensuring every portion holds together. Then, dive in, and enjoy the fruits of your labor, a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious pie that's sure to be a hit at any table. Bon Appétit!
Pro Tip: Serving it warm, not hot, enhances the flavors.
