Craving a hearty, comforting meal that's both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than these adorable mini cottage pies! This recipe takes the classic comfort food and shrinks it down to bite-sized perfection, perfect for a weeknight dinner, a fun family gathering, or even a sophisticated appetizer. These individual portions are incredibly satisfying and offer a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of a traditional cottage pie without the commitment of a large dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 12 mini cottage pies.
- For the filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (or lamb for a richer flavor)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the topping:
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds flavor and creates a delicious base for your filling.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Season with thyme, rosemary, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Make the Mashed Potatoes
While the filling simmers, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and return the potatoes to the pot. Mash with milk or cream and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble the Mini Pies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin. Divide the beef mixture evenly among the muffin cups. Top each with a spoonful of mashed potatoes, creating a mini pie effect.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving. These mini cottage pies are best enjoyed warm!
Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, sauté the vegetables in butter instead of olive oil.
- If you prefer a smoother mashed potato topping, use a potato ricer or food mill.
- Don't overcook the potatoes, or they will become gummy.
- For a richer flavor, use lamb mince instead of beef.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking.
- Use different vegetables in the filling, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef filling for extra depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: Approximately 20g Fat: Approximately 15g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g
This recipe for mini cottage pies offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic comfort food. The individual portions are perfect for portion control and make a wonderful presentation for any occasion. Enjoy!