Cottage Pie Recipe for Two: A Cozy Meal for Two

This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying cottage pie, perfectly portioned for two. Forget those massive leftovers – enjoy a hearty, homemade meal without the waste! We'll focus on maximizing flavor while minimizing portion size, making this the perfect weeknight dinner for couples or solo diners.

Ingredients:

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, ensuring you can whip up this comforting classic with ease.

For the Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 200g ground beef (or lamb, for a traditional twist)
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 100ml beef stock
• 1 tbsp plain flour
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled
• 50g butter
• 2 tbsp milk
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Grated cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

Making the Filling:

1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Brown the meat: Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Simmer the sauce: Stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, beef stock, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the flour to help thicken further if needed. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Preparing the Topping:

1. Mash the potatoes: Once the potatoes are boiled and soft, drain them and mash thoroughly with the butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Combine: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F/Gas Mark 4). Transfer the meat filling to an oven-safe dish (a small gratin dish or individual ramekins work perfectly).
2. Top it off: Spread the mashed potato evenly over the filling. If desired, sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese.
3. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and heated through.

Tips for the Best Cottage Pie for Two:

• Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste! Opt for good quality ground beef and fresh vegetables.
• Don't overcook the meat: Overcooked meat will be dry and tough. Cook it until it's browned and cooked through, but still juicy.
• Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your preference. A pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick.
• Get creative with the topping: Experiment with different cheeses, or add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for extra texture.
• Serve immediately: Cottage pie is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions:

A simple side salad or some steamed green beans complements this dish perfectly. A glass of red wine is the ideal pairing for a truly cozy evening.

This recipe ensures a delicious, perfectly portioned cottage pie without the leftovers. Enjoy your romantic and satisfying meal!