Classic Cottage Pie with Sliced Potatoes

 Introduction:

Cottage pie, a comforting staple of British cuisine, has delighted palates for generations with its savory meat filling and rich, potato topping. This particular version uses beautifully arranged sliced potatoes, transforming the traditional mashed potato topping into a visually appealing and texturally distinct variant.

Recipe Overview: This dish combines ground beef or lamb, cooked with onions, vegetables, and savory gravy, topped with layers of thinly sliced potatoes that crisp up perfectly in the oven. It’s ideal for a hearty family meal and perfect for any season.

Ingredients:

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1 lb ground beef or lamb

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup beef or vegetable broth

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced

3 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh thyme, for garnish

Instructions:

Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Add garlic and ground meat, cooking until browned.

Add Flavors: Stir in tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Let the mixture simmer until thickened, about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare Potatoes: Toss the sliced potatoes in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Assemble: In a baking dish, spread the meat mixture evenly. Layer the sliced potatoes on top, overlapping them for coverage.

Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crisp.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Conclusion: This twist on the traditional cottage pie not only adds a crispy potato texture but also a touch of elegance to this rustic dish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal that is sure to impress both family and guests alike. Enjoy the depth of flavors and the delightful contrast between the savory filling and the crisp potato topping.