Cottage Pie Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped carrots to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Simmer mixture for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.

6. Spread the beef mixture evenly into a 9x13 inch baking dish.

7. Spread mashed potatoes over the beef mixture.

8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.

9. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 32g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef.
- Other vegetables such as peas or corn can be added or substituted for the carrots.
- Chicken broth can be substituted for beef broth.

Variations:
- Shepherd's Pie can be made by using ground lamb instead of beef.
- Vegetarian Cottage Pie can be made by using a meat substitute such as crumbled tofu or tempeh.

Tips and tricks:
- Leftover mashed potatoes can be used for this recipe.
- To make the mashed potatoes creamier, add a splash of milk or cream.
- For a crispy top, broil the Cottage Pie for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Storage instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or chives can be sprinkled on top for added flavor and color.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Green beans with almonds
- Caesar salad

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beef mixture is too dry, add more beef broth or water.
- If the mashed potatoes are too thick, add more milk or cream.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Cottage Pie originated in the United Kingdom in the 18th century as a way to use up leftover meat.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, hearty, comforting

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

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Region: British

Taste: Savory, Meaty, Comforting, Herby, Rich