Classic Cottage Pie with Sliced Potatoes

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 cup (150g) peas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• ½ cup (120ml) beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Potato Topping:

• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Filling:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
• Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
• Stir in the diced carrots, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and beef broth. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until the mixture thickens.
• Add the peas and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Pre-cook the Potatoes:

• Place the potato slices in a pot of salted water and boil for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender but still firm. Drain and let them cool.

3. Assemble the Cottage Pie:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Transfer the meat filling to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
• Layer the pre-cooked potato slices on top, slightly overlapping them like shingles.

4. Add Butter and Cream:

• Brush the potato slices with melted butter. For a richer topping, drizzle heavy cream over the potatoes (optional).
• Season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle grated cheese if desired.

5. Bake the Pie:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on top.
• Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 of 6):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 3g

Health Benefits

1. Rich in Protein: Ground beef or lamb provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
2. Vitamin Boost: Carrots and peas add fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamins A, C, and K to the dish.
3. Potassium-Rich Potatoes: Potatoes offer a healthy dose of potassium, supporting heart function and muscle contraction.
4. Healthy Fats: The olive oil and optional Parmesan cheese provide heart-healthy fats and a satisfying flavor.
5. Comfort Food with a Twist: Using sliced potatoes instead of mashed potatoes makes the dish lighter and adds texture, reducing overall caloric density.

This Classic Cottage Pie with Sliced Potatoes offers a comforting and wholesome meal with perfectly seasoned beef and crispy potato layers. It’s an excellent option for family dinners or meal prep, combining nutritious ingredients with delicious flavors. Enjoy this cozy dish hot from the oven, served with a side of green salad for a complete meal!