Cottage Pie Recipe for Two: A Cozy Meal for Two

This recipe delivers all the comforting goodness of a classic cottage pie, perfectly portioned for two. Forget about leftovers – enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal designed just for you and your loved one (or yourself!). We've focused on making this recipe quick, easy, and adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 1/2 lb ground beef (or lamb, or a mix!)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp plain flour
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Cook for another minute.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potato Topping

1. Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan.
3. Mash the potatoes with the butter and milk (or cream) until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cottage Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the beef filling to two individual oven-safe dishes (ramekins or small casseroles work well).
3. Top each dish evenly with the mashed potatoes. You can use a fork to create a slightly textured surface.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the cottage pie rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious, perfectly portioned cottage pie!

Tips and Variations:

• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, peas, or sweetcorn.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicier kick.
• Use different meat: Ground lamb or a mixture of beef and lamb creates a fantastic flavor.
• Cheese topping: Sprinkle some grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking for an extra cheesy treat.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time and assemble the cottage pie just before baking.

This recipe provides a satisfying and flavorful meal without the leftovers. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy night in, this cottage pie for two is sure to become a new favorite! Remember to adjust seasoning to your preference. Enjoy!