Authentic Cottage Pie Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground lamb ( or ground beef)
• 1 medium yellow onions (fine diced)
• 15 ounces carrots ( chopped)
• 15 ounces peas
• 1 Tablespoon garlic ( minced)
• 4 stems thyme leaves ( removed from stems)
• 2 stems rosemary ( chopped fine)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 ounces tomato paste
• 1 Tablespoon worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups red wine
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2.5 pounds potatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 4 Tablespoons butter
• 2 large eggs ( yolks)
• 1 cup cheese ( shredded, parmesan or Irish cheddar)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Mince Meat Filling ---

2. 2

   To a skillet over medium-high heat brown the ground lamb for about 10 minutes, allowing the fat to release. Remove most of the excess grease.

3. 3

   Once brown, add the onion and carrots to the skillet with the meat and saute for 5 minutes until onions become translucent.

4. 4

   Add the peas, garlic, herbs, salt and pepper to the skillet and saute for 2 minutes. Add the tomato paste and stir in to cook for 1 minute.

5. 5

   Pour in red wine to deglaze the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes to remove alcohol and reduce the wine. Add the worcestershire sauce followed by the chicken stock. Reduce by half. Remove from heat and set aside.

6. 6

   --- Mashed Potatoes ---

7. 7

   Peel and dice the potatoes. Add to a pot of boiling water. Boil for about 10 minutes until fork tender. Time will depend on size of potatoes. Drain and add to a large bowl.

8. 8

   Add the chicken stock, butter, egg yolks, half of the cheese, salt, and pepper to the bowl of hot potatoes. Use a hand held stand mixer to mash and cream the potatoes.

9. 9

   --- To Assemble ---

10. 10

    Spread half of the mashed potatoes into the bottom of a casserole dish. Layer the entire meat filling next, spread evenly. Top with the remaining mashed potatoes, texturize with a fork, and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

11. 11

    Bake at 350F for 40 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted. Top with fresh herbs and serve.