This Cottage Pie Casserole recipe is a hearty comfort food classic with layers of seasoned beef, vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese.

Cottage Pie Casserole Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Introduction

When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals, Cottage Pie Casserole is a timeless classic. This dish has been loved for generations, offering rich layers of savory ground beef, flavorful vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and golden melted cheese. Perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep, cottage pie brings together comfort and nutrition in one baking dish.

Often confused with Shepherd’s Pie (which traditionally uses lamb), Cottage Pie is made with beef. The casserole-style version makes it even easier to serve, especially for larger families or gatherings. With its creamy mashed potato topping and bubbling cheesy crust, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know: the full detailed recipe, step-by-step directions, cooking tips, storage advice, and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Pie Casserole

Comforting & filling – layers of beef, vegetables, and potatoes make it a complete meal.
Customizable – you can add your favorite veggies, seasonings, or even swap proteins.
Family-friendly – both kids and adults love the creamy, cheesy topping.
Make-ahead friendly – great for meal prep or freezing for busy nights.
Perfect for gatherings – baked casserole style makes serving simple.

Ingredients for Cottage Pie Casserole

For the Beef Filling:

2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced small
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 lb (450g) ground beef
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potato Layer:

2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
½ cup milk (warm)
4 tbsp butter
½ cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Peel and cube the potatoes, then place them in a pot of salted water.
Boil until tender (about 15–20 minutes).
Drain and mash with butter, warm milk, and sour cream until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Beef Filling

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion, garlic, and carrots, sauté until softened.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Add beef broth and let simmer until slightly thickened (about 10 minutes).
Stir in peas and remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the beef filling evenly.
Layer the mashed potatoes over the beef, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
If you want extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Serve

Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for the Perfect Cottage Pie Casserole

Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes.
Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce – it adds depth and richness to the beef.
Cheese topping is optional – traditional recipes may not include it, but it adds delicious flavor.
Make it gluten-free by ensuring your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
Double the batch and freeze one for busy weeknights.

Variations & Add-Ins

Veggie Boost – Add mushrooms, corn, or green beans.
Low-Carb Option – Swap mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower.
Different Protein – Use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb.
Spicy Kick – Add chili powder or red pepper flakes.
Creamier Texture – Mix an egg yolk into the mashed potatoes before spreading.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer – Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave single portions.

What to Serve with Cottage Pie Casserole

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with:

A fresh green salad
Roasted or steamed vegetables
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
A light soup starter

Summary

Cottage Pie Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—savory ground beef layered with vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and topped with golden melted cheese. Easy to make, versatile, and perfect for family dinners, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table every time.

Cottage Pie Casserole