Cottage Pie for 8

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 large yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 large celery stalks, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 pounds ground chuck
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

45 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground chuck to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more.
5. If desired, deglaze the pan with red wine by pouring it in and scraping up any brown bits. Let simmer for 1 minute.
6. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 30 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, boil the potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with the milk and butter until smooth.
8. Spread the ground beef mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.

Nutritional Information:

Serving size: 1 cup Calories: 500 Protein: 28g Carbohydrates: 45g Fat: 25g

Dish Characteristics:

• Hearty and comforting
• Rich and flavorful
• Perfect for a cold winter night

User Comments:

• "This was the best Shepherd's Pie I've ever had! The potatoes were creamy and the meat filling was so juicy." - Sarah S.
• "I love the addition of red wine to the meat mixture. It really adds a depth of flavor." - John T.
• "I made this for my family on a rainy day and it was a hit. The kids loved it!" - Mary P.

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have red wine on hand, you can substitute beef broth or water.
• The cottage pie can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready to serve.
• Serve with a side of your favorite vegetables or salad.