Becky Excell Cottage Pie Recipe

Introduction to Becky Excell’s Cottage Pie Recipe

Becky Excell is a well-known British food blogger and author, particularly famous for her gluten-free recipes. Her cottage pie recipe is a classic example of traditional British cuisine, made with ground beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes. This dish is a staple of British comfort food and is often served in homes and restaurants across the UK. In this article, we will explore Becky Excell’s cottage pie recipe and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make it.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

To make Becky Excell’s cottage pie recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 teaspoons of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
• ¹⁄₄ cup of milk or heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons of butter

You will also need the following equipment:

• Large pan or skillet
• Colander or strainer
• Masher or potato ricer
• 9x13 inch baking dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

To make Becky Excell’s cottage pie recipe, follow these steps:

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Then, in a large pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Next, add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, add the frozen peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and dried thyme. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

While the beef mixture is cooking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes with a masher or potato ricer until they are smooth and creamy.

Now, it’s time to assemble the cottage pie. Transfer the beef mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top the beef mixture with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out to cover the entire surface.

Finally, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to consider when making Becky Excell’s cottage pie recipe:

• Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
• Add other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or chopped mushrooms, to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, for a unique twist on the recipe.
• Top the cottage pie with grated cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, for an extra burst of flavor.

👍 Note: You can also make individual servings of cottage pie in ramekins or small baking dishes for a fun and easy meal.

Nutritional Information

Here is the nutritional information for Becky Excell’s cottage pie recipe:

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	550
Protein	35g
Fat	25g
Saturated fat	10g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	5g
Sugar	5g
Sodium	400mg

In summary, Becky Excell’s cottage pie recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its rich flavor and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided in this article, you can create a mouth-watering cottage pie that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.