Go Back

Irish Cottage Pie (Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie)

Irish Cottage Pie is a cozy family dinner made with seasoned ground beef, tender carrots, and onions in a rich sauce. It is topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. This warm and hearty dish is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any night you want comfort food.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Irish
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Beef Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
Mashed Potato Topping
  • 3 cups mashed potatoes warm and creamy
  • 2 tbsp butter melted
  • 1/4 cup milk

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease.
  3. Add chopped onion and diced carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  6. In a bowl, mix warm mashed potatoes with melted butter and milk until smooth. Spread evenly over the beef mixture. Use a fork to create ridges on top.
  7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the edges are bubbling.
  8. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow the pie to set.

Notes

You can assemble this cottage pie up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking. Add frozen peas or corn for extra texture and color. For a richer topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.