Description

Gordon Ramsay’s cottage pie is a traditional dish made with minced beef cooked in a flavorful gravy with onions, carrots, and fresh herbs. It is topped with buttery mashed potatoes and baked until crisp and golden. While similar to shepherd’s pie, cottage pie uses beef, making it equally hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

Minced beef (500g): The base of the dish.
Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
Carrots (2 medium, diced): For texture and natural sweetness.
Celery (2 sticks, finely chopped): Adds additional flavor.
Tomato purée (2 tablespoons): Enhances the richness of the filling.
Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds savory depth.
Red wine (100ml, optional): For an extra layer of flavor.
Beef stock (300ml): Creates the gravy.
Thyme (1 teaspoon): Fresh or dried, for an aromatic touch.
Bay leaf (1): Adds depth to the sauce.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For cooking.
Salt and black pepper: To taste.

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury potatoes like Maris Piper work best.
Butter (50g): For creaminess.
Milk (100ml): To create a smooth mash.
Egg yolk (1): For a rich, golden topping.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, 50g): Adds a crispy, cheesy crust.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the filling

Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Make the gravy

Return the beef to the pan. Stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and red wine (if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the beef stock, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Make the mashed potatoes

Boil the potatoes in a large saucepan of salted water for 15–20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the egg yolk for richness.

Step 4: Assemble the cottage pie

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan, 400°F).
Spoon the beef filling into an ovenproof dish, spreading it evenly.
Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing with a fork to create peaks for a crispy texture. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake the cottage pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 6: Serve

Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.