Slow Cooker Cottage Pie

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and crushed garlic to the slow cooker with the browned beef.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Dissolve the beef stock cube in the hot water.
2. Stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.
4. Stir everything together.

Step 4: Slow Cook

• Low: Cook for 6–7 hours
• High: Cook for 3–4 hours

The vegetables should be tender, and the filling should be thick and flavorful.

Step 5: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. About 30 minutes before the filling is done, boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
2. Drain well.
3. Mash with the butter and milk until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Assemble the Cottage Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spoon the beef filling into a baking dish if it’s not already in an oven-safe slow cooker insert.
3. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
4. Use a fork to create ridges for extra crispiness.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
2. For extra browning, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it.

Step 8: Serve

1. Let the cottage pie rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

Serve with:

• Buttered peas
• Steamed green beans
• Garden salad
• Crusty bread
• Roasted vegetables

Tips for the Best Cottage Pie

• For the richest flavor, brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes make the creamiest mashed potato topping.
• Add frozen peas or sweet corn during the last 30 minutes of slow cooking for extra vegetables.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
• A sprinkle of Parmesan or cheddar cheese creates an extra crispy, flavorful topping.

Enjoy this hearty Slow Cooker Cottage Pie with its rich beef filling and fluffy golden mashed potato topping—classic comfort food the whole family will love! 🥧