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Gordon Ramsay Cottage Pie

Gordon Ramsay Cottage Pie recipe
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This Gordon Ramsay-inspired cottage pie features a rich, savory beef filling with tender vegetables, topped with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection. The combination of Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste adds depth, while the crispy potato topping provides a comforting contrast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the mashed potato topping:
  • 2 lb russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 2 oz)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • For the beef filling:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F / 200°C. This ensures the oven is at the right temperature for baking, which helps achieve a golden, crispy potato topping.
  2. Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander to remove excess water, which prevents the mashed potatoes from becoming watery.
  3. While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent. This step builds a flavor base for the filling.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 8-10 minutes, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to avoid a greasy filling. Browning the beef properly enhances the meaty flavor.
  5. Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for 1-2 minutes to caramelize slightly and deepen the flavors. Then, add the beef broth, dried thyme, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. If the mixture seems too thin, sprinkle the flour over it and stir to thicken.
  6. Add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, just until heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside. The peas add sweetness and color without overcooking.
  7. Return to the drained potatoes. Add the butter, warm milk, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mash with a potato masher or ricer until smooth and creamy. Avoid overmashing or using a food processor, as this can make the potatoes gluey. Stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese for extra richness.
  8. Assemble the cottage pie. Spread the beef filling evenly in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them gently to cover the filling completely. Use a fork to create texture on the surface, which helps with browning. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F / 175°C for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For longer storage, assemble the pie without baking, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 400°F / 200°C for 40-50 minutes, covering with foil if the topping browns too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: cottage pie, Gordon Ramsay cottage pie, British cottage pie, beef and potato pie, mashed potato topping, comfort food, weeknight dinner, family meal, savory pie, baked dinner, ground beef recipe, hearty main course

Find it online: https://britishrecipes.uk/gordon-ramsay-cottage-pie-recipe/