Instructions:

Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat the oven 180 C (350 F). Cut rounds of the potatoes and heal in a salted water for almost 8 minutes until they are cooked. Pour out the water and put to a side.

Cook the Minced Beef: Warm the oil in a big pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cook until they become soft. Add the firm beef and cook on each side until well done.

Flavour the Meat: Add in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. The beef broth is added and allowed to reduce for about 10 minutes.

Assemble the Dish: From now, add the beef mixture into a baking dish. In a single layer, distribute the potato slices that were cooked over the meat section.

Baking: If cheese is to be used, it must be placed on top of the potatoes. Place into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 – 30 minutes or until the top becomes brown and crispy.

Serve: Sprinkle fresh thyme sprigs over the dish and serve immediately at high temperature.

Hints for Success:

Boiling the potatoes for a shorter time period only until tender, but not too soft would help them keep their shape when baked.

Fry the minced beef before adding the other ingredients as this will improve the taste of the meal.

After taking out the dish from the oven, allow it to cool for about 5 – 10 minutes so that it is easy to cut through.

Health Benefits:

Minced Beef: This source of food will help you get plenty of protein and iron as well as vitamin B12.

Potato: It has high quantities of vitamins C and B6 and also has potassium and fiber.

Olive Oil: It contains good fats which protect the heart.

Nutritional Information (Per given amount):

Calories: 350

Protein: 22g

Carbohydrates: 28g

Fat: 16g

Fiber: 3g

Variations and Substitutions:

Meat Substitute: You can also substitute ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for the beef.

Vegetarian Option: Remove the meat and add lentils or any plant-based ground meat.

Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or else consume a non-dairy cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I cook this dish the day before? Yes, all three layers can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, and baked just before serving.

What other vegetables can I add? You can also mix some carrots, peas, or mushrooms into the beef mixture for additional taste and nutrition.

Can I use the leftover in the freezer? Yes, this dish can be easily frozen. Store in an airtight container for 3 months maximum. For the best result, reheat in the oven.

Conclusion:

This variation of the delicious cottage pie with sliced potatoes is wholesome and nourishing and caters to the indulgence one craves at mealtime. With a potato crust and beefy insides, meal times never get boring when this is on the menu. It’s a great dish to serve for family dinners or an aid in meal prep for the week.