Cottage pie is a traditional British dish featuring a savory base of cooked minced meat, typically beef, in a gravy with vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions, topped with a layer of mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. It is a classic comfort food enjoyed globally. The term "cottage pie" was first recorded around 1791, when potatoes became an affordable crop in England and Ireland. Cottage pie was a popular, affordable meal for peasants living in cottages.
Though the exact origin of cottage pie is unknown, it emerged as a way to use leftover meat and stretch resources. Recipes vary, but common ingredients include ground beef, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves. The mashed potato topping is typically made with milk and butter, and sometimes cheese is added. Some variations include sweet potatoes, cauliflower, or lentils as a topping or substitute other meats like lamb, turkey, or chicken. Cottage pie is often confused with Shepherd's pie, but Shepherd's pie traditionally uses lamb, while cottage pie uses beef.
While traditionally a home-cooked meal, pre-made cottage pies can be found in the frozen food sections of many grocery stores, and are often featured on the menus of pubs and restaurants. The price of a premade cottage pie varies depending on the brand, size, and ingredients used.
