Gordon Ramsay Cottage Pie

Gordon Ramsay’s Cottage Pie is a comforting and hearty dish featuring a rich, savory minced beef filling topped with smooth, creamy mashed potatoes. This classic British recipe is packed with flavor, using fresh herbs, Worcestershire sauce, and a velvety mash for the perfect finishing touch.

What Is Gordon Ramsay Cottage Pie?

Gordon Ramsay’s Cottage Pie is a traditional British dish made with minced beef, vegetables, and a thick, flavorful gravy, topped with buttery mashed potatoes and baked until golden. Unlike Shepherd’s Pie, which is made with lamb, Cottage Pie is beef-based and has a deep, rich taste that makes it a comforting meal.

Other Popular Recipes

• Gordon Ramsay Creamy Mac and Cheese
• Hairy Bikers Beef Stew
• Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken
• Mary Berry Cheese Scones

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Rich and flavorful beef filling with Worcestershire sauce and herbs.
• Creamy, golden mashed potato topping that’s smooth and fluffy.
• A comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
• Easy to make ahead and freeze for busy days.
• A classic British dish that never goes out of style.

Ingredients Needed for Gordon Ramsay Cottage Pie

For the Beef Filling:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 500g minced beef
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 250ml beef stock
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 900g potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
• 50g unsalted butter
• 100ml milk (or cream for extra richness)
• 50g cheddar cheese (grated, optional)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large frying pan
• Saucepan
• Potato masher
• Baking dish (20cm x 30cm)
• Wooden spoon

Instructions to Make Gordon Ramsay Cottage Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling

• Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
• Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until soft.
• Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
• Add the minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
• Stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.
• Pour in the beef stock and simmer for 15 minutes until thickened.
• If needed, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir it in for a thicker sauce.
• Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes

• Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender.
• Drain and return to the pan.
• Add butter, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper, then mash until smooth.
• Stir in grated cheddar cheese for extra richness (optional).

Step 4: Assemble the Cottage Pie

• Pour the beef filling into a baking dish and spread evenly.
• Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top and smooth with a fork.
• Use a fork to create ridges for a crispy texture when baked.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the cottage pie rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Enjoy with steamed vegetables or crusty bread.

What to Serve With Gordon Ramsay Cottage Pie

• Steamed green beans or peas – A classic side dish.
• Crusty bread – Perfect for scooping up the rich sauce.
• Side salad – A fresh contrast to the hearty pie.
• Pickled onions or chutney – Adds a tangy kick.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Cottage Pie

• Use a mix of beef and pork mince for extra depth of flavor.
• Let the filling cool slightly before adding the mashed potatoes to prevent sinking.
• Brush the potato topping with melted butter for a crispy, golden crust.
• Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for an easy meal prep option.
• Use fresh herbs for a more aromatic flavor.

What Are Variations of Gordon Ramsay Cottage Pie?

• Shepherd’s Pie: Swap beef for minced lamb.
• Vegetarian Cottage Pie: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms.
• Cheesy Potato Topping: Mix in Parmesan or Gruyère for a richer flavor.
• Spiced Cottage Pie: Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for warmth.

How Do I Store Gordon Ramsay Cottage Pie?

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for later: Wrap the unbaked pie in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat in the oven: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes until heated through.

How Can I Reheat Cottage Pie Without Drying It Out?

• Oven method: Cover with foil and bake at 160°C (320°F) for 20 minutes.
• Microwave method: Heat in short 1-minute bursts, stirring in between.
• Air fryer method: Reheat at 170°C (340°F) for 5-7 minutes for a crispy top.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

• Use lean minced beef to reduce fat content.
• Swap butter for olive oil in the mash.
• Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for added nutrients.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 5g

FAQs

How Do I Stop My Cottage Pie from Being Watery?

To prevent a watery cottage pie, simmer the beef filling until most of the liquid has reduced before layering with mashed potatoes. If needed, add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce.

Can I Make Cottage Pie Ahead of Time?

Yes, cottage pie can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. Simply cover and refrigerate, then bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 25 minutes until heated through.

What Is the Difference Between Cottage Pie and Shepherd’s Pie?

The main difference is the meat used. Cottage Pie is made with beef, while Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb. Both have a mashed potato topping and a rich, savory filling.

Can I Freeze Cottage Pie?

Yes, cottage pie can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 45 minutes, or thaw overnight before baking.

Final Words

Gordon Ramsay’s Cottage Pie is a classic British comfort dish, packed with rich, meaty flavors and a creamy potato topping.

Try it today for a warm, filling, and flavorful meal!

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