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Jamie Oliver’s Cottage Pie Recipe

Jamie Oliver's Cottage Pie
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Jamie Oliver’s cottage pie is a traditional recipe that combines ground beef cooked in a flavorful gravy with carrots, onions, and herbs. The filling is topped with a thick layer of mashed potatoes, sometimes enhanced with grated cheese, and baked until golden and bubbling.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • Minced beef (500g): The base of the filling.
  • Onions (2 medium, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
  • Carrots (2 medium, diced): For texture and natural sweetness.
  • Celery (2 sticks, diced): Optional, for extra flavor.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a savory kick.
  • Tomato purée (1 tablespoon): Enhances the gravy’s richness.
  • Beef stock (300ml): Creates the savory sauce.
  • Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds depth and umami.
  • Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon, chopped): For aromatic flavor.
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For cooking.
  • Salt and black pepper: To season.

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

  • Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury potatoes work best for a fluffy mash.
  • Butter (50g): Adds richness.
  • Milk (75ml): Creates creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Grated cheese (optional, 50g): For a golden topping.

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 spoon. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
  • In the same pan, sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for 8–10 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Make the gravy

  • Return the beef to the pan. Stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
  • Pour in the beef stock, bring to a simmer, and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Make the mashed potatoes

  • Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt.

Step 4: Assemble the cottage pie

  • Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan, 400°F).
  • Spread the beef mixture evenly in an ovenproof dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top and smooth with a fork. Optionally, sprinkle grated cheese over the mash.

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

  • Let the pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with steamed greens or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://britishbakingrecipes.co.uk/jamie-olivers-cottage-pie/