The Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie is a hearty and classic British dish that brings comforting flavors to your table. With a rich minced beef filling and a golden, creamy mashed potato topping, this cottage pie is a perfect family-friendly meal. The Hairy Bikers’ twist adds a depth of flavor that makes this dish stand out while keeping it simple to prepare.
What is Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie?
Cottage pie is a traditional dish made with minced beef simmered in a savory gravy, layered with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked until golden. The Hairy Bikers’ version includes classic seasonings and vegetables, ensuring a rich, hearty meal that’s satisfying and flavorful.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Classic comfort food: Perfect for cold evenings or family dinners.
- Rich and flavorful: Enhanced with seasonings and fresh ingredients.
- Easy to make: Straightforward steps for a reliable dish.
- Family-friendly: Loved by both adults and children.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when needed.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie
For the Filling:
- Minced beef (500g): Lean or regular, depending on your preference.
- Onion (1 large): Finely chopped.
- Carrots (2 medium): Diced.
- Celery (2 sticks): Finely sliced.
- Tomato purée (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the gravy.
- Beef stock (300ml): Forms the base of the gravy.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): For a tangy depth of flavor.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon): Optional, for an aromatic touch.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing.
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury potatoes like Maris Piper or King Edward are ideal.
- Butter (50g): Adds creaminess.
- Milk (100ml): For a smooth, fluffy mash.
- Cheddar cheese (optional, 50g grated): For a golden, cheesy topping.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan: For cooking the filling.
- Large pot: For boiling potatoes.
- Ovenproof dish: For assembling and baking the pie.
- Potato masher or ricer: For making smooth mashed potatoes.
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie
Step 1: Prepare the mashed potatoes
- Peel and chop the potatoes into even-sized chunks.
- Boil them in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender.
- Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the filling
- Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the beef stock, bring to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the pie
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Spoon the beef filling into an ovenproof dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, using a fork to create ridges for a crispy finish. Sprinkle with cheese if desired.
Step 4: Bake the pie
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Step 5: Serve
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
What Goes Well With Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie
- Steamed green beans: Adds a fresh and crunchy side.
- Roasted root vegetables: Sweet and savory flavors complement the pie.
- Peas with mint: A classic side for cottage pie.
- Pickled red cabbage: Adds a tangy contrast.
- Garlic bread: Great for scooping up the gravy.
- Crisp green salad: Balances the richness of the dish.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor of the filling.
- Thicken the gravy: Let the filling simmer until thick to avoid a watery base.
- Make ridges in the mash: This helps create a crispy topping when baked.
- Add cheese: For extra indulgence, mix grated cheese into the mash or sprinkle on top.
- Prepare ahead: Assemble the pie and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Easy Variations of Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie
- Vegetarian option: Replace minced beef with lentils or plant-based mince.
- Shepherd’s pie: Use minced lamb instead of beef for a traditional twist.
- Sweet potato topping: Swap regular potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add chili powder or smoked paprika to the filling for heat.
- Herbed mash: Mix fresh chives or parsley into the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Best Practices to Store Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Wrap portions in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat gently: Warm in an oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
FAQs
What is the difference between cottage pie and shepherd’s pie?
Cottage pie is made with minced beef, while shepherd’s pie uses minced lamb. Both dishes are topped with mashed potatoes and baked until golden.
Can I make cottage pie ahead of time?
Yes, cottage pie can be made ahead. Assemble the pie, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze cottage pie?
Cottage pie freezes well. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or storing it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How do I prevent the mashed potato topping from sinking into the filling?
Allow the beef filling to cool slightly before spreading the mashed potatoes on top. This helps create a firm base and prevents sinking.
Final Words
The Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its rich filling and creamy potato topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ready to try this delicious recipe?
Bring warmth and flavor to your table today!
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Hairy Bikers Cottage Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
Cottage pie is a traditional dish made with minced beef simmered in a savory gravy, layered with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked until golden. The Hairy Bikers’ version includes classic seasonings and vegetables, ensuring a rich, hearty meal that’s satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- Minced beef (500g): Lean or regular, depending on your preference.
- Onion (1 large): Finely chopped.
- Carrots (2 medium): Diced.
- Celery (2 sticks): Finely sliced.
- Tomato purée (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the gravy.
- Beef stock (300ml): Forms the base of the gravy.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): For a tangy depth of flavor.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon): Optional, for an aromatic touch.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing.
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury potatoes like Maris Piper or King Edward are ideal.
- Butter (50g): Adds creaminess.
- Milk (100ml): For a smooth, fluffy mash.
- Cheddar cheese (optional, 50g grated): For a golden, cheesy topping.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the mashed potatoes
- Peel and chop the potatoes into even-sized chunks.
- Boil them in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender.
- Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the filling
- Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the beef stock, bring to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the pie
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Spoon the beef filling into an ovenproof dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, using a fork to create ridges for a crispy finish. Sprinkle with cheese if desired.
Step 4: Bake the pie
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Step 5: Serve
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
