A baking dish of cottage pie with golden mashed potato topping and a rich beef filling underneath, served with a spoon.
Cottage pie is the beefy cousin of shepherd’s pie, and it’s pure comfort in a dish. The savory beef filling is thick, rich, and packed with veggies, then topped with creamy mashed potatoes that bake up golden. It’s cozy, filling, and perfect for weeknights or Sunday dinner. And yes—it tastes even better as leftovers.
If you’re craving a cozy dinner that feels like home, cottage pie (beef) is the answer. It’s hearty, saucy, and topped with mashed potatoes that bake into a golden layer.
The technical feature that makes it “best ever” is the thickened beef gravy. When it’s simmered just right, it becomes glossy and rich, so the pie slices nicely instead of turning soupy.
This cottage pie (beef) is a fan-favorite kind of recipe—simple ingredients, big comfort, and meal prep friendly for the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Cottage Pie (Beef)
- Ultimate comfort food: Rich beef filling with creamy mashed potato topping.
- One-pan filling: The savory base comes together in one skillet.
- Family-friendly: Classic flavors that everyone recognizes and loves.
- Great for meal prep: Leftovers reheat like a dream.
- Freezer-friendly: Perfect for stocking your freezer with cozy dinners.
Ingredients for Cottage Pie (Beef)
Filling
- Ground beef (2 pounds): Classic cottage pie base; use 85/15 for good flavor without excess grease.
- Onion, diced (1): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Carrots, diced (2): Classic veggie texture and sweetness.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): Color and pop; swap with corn.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Savory flavor.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Boosts richness and color.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Forms the gravy; low-sodium keeps it balanced.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds deep savory flavor.
- Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the filling.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste.
Topping
- Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (3 pounds): Makes fluffy mash; Yukon gold works too.
- Butter (5 tablespoons): Richness and flavor.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Creaminess; add more if needed.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for good mashed potatoes.
- Optional: Shredded cheddar (1/2 cup) for a golden cheesy top.
How to Make Cottage Pie (Beef)
- 1. Boil the potatoes. Cover potatoes with water, bring to a boil, and simmer 15–18 minutes until tender. Drain very well.
- 2. Mash the topping. Mash potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy. If it looks too thick, add a splash more milk.
- 3. Cook the beef. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- 4. Build the gravy. Add onion and carrots and cook 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and tomato paste for 30 seconds. Sprinkle in flour and stir 1 minute. Slowly add broth and Worcestershire, then stir in peas. Simmer 6–10 minutes until thick and saucy.
- 5. Assemble and bake. Spread filling in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and spread gently. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until the top is lightly golden. Broil 1–2 minutes for extra color if desired.
Tips for Perfect Cottage Pie (Beef)
- Simmer the filling until thick—this is the key to clean slices.
- Drain potatoes well so the topping doesn’t turn watery.
- Season in layers: beef, gravy, and potatoes all need a little salt.
- Let it rest 10 minutes before serving so it sets.
- If the top isn’t browning, broil briefly and watch closely.
Variations & Substitutions
- More veggies: Add mushrooms or diced zucchini (sauté first).
- Cheesy top: Mix cheddar into the mash or sprinkle on top.
- Gluten-free: Thicken with cornstarch slurry instead of flour.
- Lighter: Use lean ground beef and add extra veggies.
- Herb twist: Add rosemary or thyme for a cozy flavor.
- Leftovers: Reheat and top with a fried egg for a fun brunch bowl.
Storing & Reheating
Refrigerate cottage pie for 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot, or microwave individual portions.
Freeze tightly wrapped up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat covered at 350°F until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Green beans or peas for a classic pairing.
- A crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette to cut the richness.
- Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts for extra cozy vibes.
- Crusty bread if you want to scoop every bit of gravy.
- Great for family dinners and meal prep lunches.
Reader Review: “This cottage pie tasted like something my grandma would make—rich, cozy, and the topping was perfect!”
If you make cottage pie (beef), leave a rating and comment. Would you add cheese on top, extra veggies, or keep it classic? Share your favorite version!