The Nigel Slater Cottage Pie is a refined take on the classic British comfort dish. Known for his simple yet flavorful approach to cooking, Nigel Slater’s version emphasizes fresh ingredients and a deeply savory filling paired with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. Perfect for cozy dinners, this cottage pie will become a family favorite.
What is Nigel Slater’s Cottage Pie?
Nigel Slater’s cottage pie is a traditional British dish made with minced beef cooked with onions, carrots, and celery in a rich gravy. It’s topped with a layer of smooth mashed potatoes, which is baked until golden and slightly crisp. This recipe is ideal for warming up during colder months or enjoying a hearty meal.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Rich and comforting: A satisfying dish for any occasion.
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce.
- Easy to make: Straightforward steps for a classic recipe.
- Family-friendly: A dish loved by all ages.
- Customizable: Add your own twist with different vegetables or cheeses.
Ingredients Needed to Make Nigel Slater Cottage Pie
For the Filling:
- Minced beef (500g): High-quality beef for a rich flavor.
- Onions (2 medium, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Carrots (2 medium, diced): For texture and natural sweetness.
- Celery (2 sticks, finely chopped): Adds aromatic depth.
- Tomato purée (1 tablespoon): For a rich base.
- Beef stock (300ml): Creates the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds savory depth.
- Red wine (optional, 100ml): For a more robust flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For cooking.
- Salt and black pepper: To season.
- Bay leaf (1): For an aromatic touch.
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury potatoes like Maris Piper are ideal.
- Butter (50g): Adds richness.
- Milk (100ml): For a smooth mash.
- Nutmeg (a pinch): Optional, for subtle warmth.
- Grated Parmesan (optional, 50g): Adds a cheesy crust.
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan or skillet: For cooking the filling.
- Saucepan: For boiling the potatoes.
- Ovenproof dish: For assembling the pie.
- Potato masher: To make the mashed potatoes.
Instructions to Make Nigel Slater Cottage Pie
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 from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery for 8–10 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Make the sauce
- Return the beef to the pan. Stir in the tomato purée and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and simmer until slightly reduced. Add the beef stock and bay leaf. Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and black 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 nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
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 and spread it out evenly.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing them with a fork to create ridges for a crispy texture. Optionally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on 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
- Let the cottage pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with steamed green beans or a fresh side salad.
What Goes Well With Nigel Slater Cottage Pie
- Steamed green beans: Adds freshness and crunch.
- Roasted root vegetables: Complements the savory flavors.
- Pickled red cabbage: Provides a tangy contrast.
- Yorkshire puddings: A fun twist for serving.
- Buttered peas: A simple and classic side dish.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Nigel Slater Cottage Pie
- Use fresh, high-quality beef: Enhances the flavor of the filling.
- Let the filling cool slightly: This prevents the mashed potatoes from sinking.
- Season the potatoes well: Properly seasoned mash enhances the overall flavor.
- Create texture on the mash: Use a fork to make ridges for a crispy finish.
- Simmer the filling properly: Reducing the sauce intensifies the flavors.
Easy Variations of Nigel Slater Cottage Pie
- Vegetarian version: Use lentils or plant-based mince instead of beef.
- Sweet potato topping: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a twist.
- Cheesy topping: Stir grated cheddar into the mash before topping.
- Herb-infused: Add fresh thyme or parsley to the filling.
- Gluten-free option: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
Best Practices to Store Nigel Slater Cottage Pie
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Cool completely before freezing in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until thoroughly heated.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
FAQs
Can I make Nigel Slater cottage pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pie ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving for the best results.
Can I use a different type of meat for cottage pie?
Yes, while traditional cottage pie uses beef, you can substitute it with chicken, turkey, or plant-based mince for a lighter or vegetarian option.
How can I make the mashed potato topping extra crispy?
To make the mashed potato topping crispy, create ridges with a fork and sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top before baking.
Can cottage pie be frozen?
Yes, cottage pie freezes well. Assemble the pie without baking, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Final Words
The Nigel Slater Cottage Pie is a timeless and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich beef filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Ready to bring this classic British comfort food to your table? Try this recipe and enjoy every delicious bite!
More By British Baking Recipes
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- Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Chicken in Pastry
- Jamie Oliver Lamb Gravy
Nigel Slater Cottage Pie
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 45
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
Nigel Slater’s cottage pie is a traditional British dish made with minced beef cooked with onions, carrots, and celery in a rich gravy. It’s topped with a layer of smooth mashed potatoes, which is baked until golden and slightly crisp. This recipe is ideal for warming up during colder months or enjoying a hearty meal.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- Minced beef (500g): High-quality beef for a rich flavor.
- Onions (2 medium, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Carrots (2 medium, diced): For texture and natural sweetness.
- Celery (2 sticks, finely chopped): Adds aromatic depth.
- Tomato purée (1 tablespoon): For a rich base.
- Beef stock (300ml): Creates the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds savory depth.
- Red wine (optional, 100ml): For a more robust flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For cooking.
- Salt and black pepper: To season.
- Bay leaf (1): For an aromatic touch.
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury potatoes like Maris Piper are ideal.
- Butter (50g): Adds richness.
- Milk (100ml): For a smooth mash.
- Nutmeg (a pinch): Optional, for subtle warmth.
- Grated Parmesan (optional, 50g): Adds a 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 from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery for 8–10 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Make the sauce
- Return the beef to the pan. Stir in the tomato purée and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and simmer until slightly reduced. Add the beef stock and bay leaf. Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and black 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 nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
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 and spread it out evenly.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing them with a fork to create ridges for a crispy texture. Optionally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on 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
- Let the cottage pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with steamed green beans or a fresh side salad.
