This recipe is sponsored by our friends over at Alexia. We’re using their high-quality Crispy Seasoned Potato Puffs with Roasted Garlic & Cracked Black Pepper to make this delicious Cottage Pie recipe. Are you getting all the cozy vibes from this easy dinner recipe? A delicious beef and veggie base, scented with onions, garlic, herbs, and spices. Topped with melty Irish cheddar cheese and extra crispy potato puffs! There’s no need to make mashed potatoes from scratch here; Alexia’s Potato Puffs make this meal weeknight-friendly and add a delicious crunchy texture! But guess what? I haven’t even told you the best part yet! It’s made entirely in one skillet or dutch oven as long as you have one that’s oven-safe. Hubby has already declared this one of his all-time favorite dinner recipes, and I’m hoping you get that kind of response when you make it too!
What is the difference between Cottage Pie and Shepherd’s Pie?
A Cottage Pie is similar to a Shepherd’s Pie as it contains most of the same ingredients and is topped with a potato crust. The main difference between a Cottage Pie and Shepherd’s Pie is the meat that is used. Cottage Pie is made using ground beef, whereas Shepherd’s Pie is made with ground lamb.
What ingredients do you need to make Cottage Pie?
Oil: I usually prefer to use lean ground beef to keep things lighter for my cottage pie recipe. You’ll need a drizzle of oil to saute both the ground beef and the veggies.Ground beef: If you use ground beef with higher fat content, drip off all but a tablespoon of grease before sauteing the veggies – easy peasy!Mirepoix: Mirepoix is the French word for chopped onions, carrots, and celery. We’re using equal parts of each of those ingredients for today’s pie.Garlic: Minced garlic helps add more flavor to the pie base.Seasonings and Sauces: We’re using a few seasonings like ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and Italian seasoning to flavor the pie. The cinnamon and nutmeg really make this a warm and homey pie! Feel free to omit them if you aren’t a fan; I’d never make cottage pie or shepherd’s pie without them! We’ll also use tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce to add depth of flavor. Bay leaves lend a delicious earthy flavor as the pie base simmers. And cornstarch is used to help thicken the base of the pie.Beef Stock: The beef stock ties all the flavors of this pie together. In a pinch, chicken stock would work well. If you use chicken stock, add two teaspoons of low sodium soy sauce. It brings out more umami flavor in the beef.Peas: I used frozen peas for this recipe. Defrost them on the counter or in the microwave before tossing them in.Cheddar Cheese: I specifically like to use Irish cheddar cheese for this recipe. You can use an aged cheddar or one that is mild; either would work for this recipe.Alexia Crispy Seasoned Potato Puffs: I used one whole bag in a 10 ½ inch skillet. Depending on the size of your pan, you may need more or less.
How to make Cottage Pie on a weeknight:
I hope you’ll give this deliciously warm and comforting meal a try! A big thank you to our friends over at Alexia for sponsoring this post. We love working with companies that make good, wholesome products! As always, all opinions expressed are my own.
