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Healthy Cottage Pie

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A lighter twist on the classic British cottage pie, made with lean ground meat, plenty of vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato (or cauliflower mash) topping. Healthy Cottage Pie is wholesome, comforting, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes (or 1 1/2 lbs potatoes + 1/2 lb cauliflower)
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or low-fat milk
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or light butter
  • Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Peel and chop potatoes (and cauliflower if using). Boil in salted water until tender, 15–20 minutes. Drain and mash with Greek yogurt, olive oil or butter, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  3. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Cook 1–2 minutes.
  5. Pour in broth, add peas, and simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Spread meat and vegetable mixture in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
  8. Bake 20–25 minutes until the top is lightly golden. Broil briefly for a crispier top if desired.
  9. Rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • For lower carbs, replace some or all potatoes with cauliflower mash.
  • Use lentils and vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • Sweet potato mash adds flavor and nutrients.
  • Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to boost vegetables.
  • Frozen mixed vegetables work well as a shortcut.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/healthy-cottage-pie-2/