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Traditional Irish Cottage Pie Recipe

Traditional Irish Cottage Pie Recipe

520kcal
5 from 1 vote
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Prep 15 minutes
Cook 1 hour
10 minutes
Total 1 hour 25 minutes
Traditional Irish Cottage Pie Recipe is a classic Irish comfort food made with minced beef cooked in a rich savory gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked until golden brown. It is a hearty, filling, and family-friendly dish that reflects traditional Irish home cooking and is perfect for everyday dinners or meal prep.
Servings 6 people
Course Main Course
Cuisine British, Eastern European, Irish

Ingredients

  • 500 g minced beef
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery sticks chopped
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef stock
  • 4 –5 potatoes peeled and chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ¼ cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp thyme optional

Equipment

  • Large frying pan
  • Saucepan
  • Potato masher
  • Oven-safe baking dish
  • Wooden spoon

Method

  1. Brown the minced beef in a large pan until fully cooked.
    Traditional Irish Cottage Pie Recipe
  2. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and beef stock, then simmer until thick and rich.
  4. Boil the potatoes until soft, then mash with butter and milk.
    Traditional Irish Cottage Pie Recipe
  5. Transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish evenly.
  6. Spread the mashed potatoes on top and smooth the surface.
  7. Bake at 200°C (392°F) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy.
    Traditional Irish Cottage Pie Recipe

Nutrition

Serving300gCalories520kcalCarbohydrates45gProtein28gFat26gSaturated Fat12gPolyunsaturated Fat2gMonounsaturated Fat10gTrans Fat0.5gCholesterol95mgSodium780mgPotassium1100mgFiber5gSugar6gVitamin A5200IUVitamin C18mgCalcium120mgIron5mg

Notes

  • Add Worcestershire sauce or garlic for extra depth of flavor.
  • Can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months.
  • For a healthier version, use lean beef and reduce butter.
  • Optional: sprinkle cheese on top for a golden crust.
Brown the beef well for deep flavor. Let the filling simmer until thick. Use buttery mash for a creamy top. Rest 10 minutes before serving. Add Worcestershire sauce for extra taste. Grill 2–3 minutes for a crispy top.

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