Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie is a rich and hearty British dish made popular by the famous duo, Dave Myers and Simon King, known for their cooking show The Hairy Bikers. This comforting meal features a savory minced meat filling, typically beef or lamb, that is slow-cooked with vegetables, herbs, and stock, then topped with a creamy mashed potato layer. The pie is baked until the top is golden and slightly crispy, making it the perfect dish for cozying up on a cold evening or serving at a family gathering.

The Hairy Bikers’ twist on cottage pie brings a deeper, more flavorful base with a balance of robust seasoning and ingredients, elevating the traditional recipe. It is versatile and customizable, with the option to adjust the meat or vegetable components to suit dietary preferences.

Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make a delicious Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Meat Filling

• 1 kg minced beef or lamb (you can also opt for a mix of both)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 100g peas (frozen or fresh)
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 500ml beef or vegetable stock
• 1 tbsp flour (to thicken)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Herbs: A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary, or a small bunch of fresh herbs (parsley and thyme work well)

For The Mashed Potato Topping

• 1 kg potatoes (such as Maris Piper or King Edward for the fluffiest mash)
• 50g butter
• 150ml milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large frying pan or skillet (for browning the meat and vegetables)
• Large saucepan (for boiling the potatoes)
• Baking dish (about 25 x 20 cm for serving 4-6 people)
• Potato masher or electric mixer (for mashing the potatoes)
• Wooden spoon (for stirring the filling)
• Chopping board and knife (for chopping vegetables)
• Measuring spoons and cups

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie

1. Prepare The Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water, bring it to a boil, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Once done, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, and mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.

2. Cook The Filling

While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5-7 minutes).

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the minced meat to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.

Once the meat is browned, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine. This will help thicken the filling.

Stir in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs. Pour in the stock, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

Add the peas in the last few minutes of cooking. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble The Pie

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or 400°F. Spoon the meat mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Carefully spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading it out to cover the filling completely. Use a fork to rough up the surface of the mashed potatoes, as this will help create a crispy, golden crust when baked.

4. Bake

Place the pie in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. If you want an extra crispy top, you can put it under the broiler (grill) for the last 5 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

5. Serve

Once the cottage pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of green vegetables like broccoli or a simple salad.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Meat variations: While the Hairy Bikers often use minced beef or lamb, you can mix it up by using chicken or turkey for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use lentils or plant-based mince.
• Herb choices: Fresh herbs add more fragrance and flavor, but dried herbs can also work well if you don’t have fresh ones on hand. Thyme and rosemary are classic choices, but you could also experiment with sage or bay leaves for a unique twist.
• Make it ahead: Cottage pie is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance. Simply cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the pie for up to 3 months and bake it from frozen (just add extra cooking time).
• Perfect mashed potatoes: For an extra creamy mash, use a potato ricer or food mill instead of a regular masher. This will give you a lighter, fluffier texture. Adding a bit of cream instead of milk can also make the mash richer.
• Cheese lovers’ twist: If you love a cheesy crust, sprinkle some grated cheddar or parmesan over the mashed potatoes before baking. It will create a golden, cheesy top that’s absolutely irresistible.

Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie is the ultimate comfort food – a perfect blend of savory flavors, hearty textures, and satisfying ingredients. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner or a cozy evening in, this dish is sure to impress.

With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate the classic British dish with the Hairy Bikers’ special touch, adding your own flair if desired. Enjoy it fresh from the oven, or make it ahead for an even better taste the next day!.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie is a classic comfort food that’s beloved by many. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy meal.

But if you’re looking to add your personal touch to the recipe, there are several creative twists that can elevate the dish or cater to different dietary preferences. Below are a few ideas to give the traditional cottage pie a fun, flavorful makeover:.

1. Swap the Meat for Plant-Based Alternatives: For those looking for a vegetarian or vegan alternative, consider swapping out the traditional minced beef for plant-based options like lentils, mushrooms, or vegan mince. You can also try mixing in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas to maintain a hearty texture.
2. Add Extra Vegetables: While classic cottage pie typically uses peas and carrots, adding more vegetables can give the dish a vibrant boost. Try incorporating parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even spinach for added nutrition. Root vegetables like turnips or swedes can also bring a unique flavor to the dish.
3. Change the Mash: The mashed potatoes on top of cottage pie are the quintessential element, but why not mix things up? Instead of using regular potatoes, try sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor. You can also combine potatoes with other root vegetables like cauliflower for a lower-carb version. For an extra creamy topping, fold some cream cheese or sour cream into the mash.
4. Spice it Up: If you’re in the mood for a little heat, consider adding spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes to the filling. For a more exotic twist, you could incorporate some curry powder or garam masala, which pairs beautifully with the savory beef and mashed potato topping.
5. Herbs and Seasoning: The classic cottage pie is often seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and some fresh herbs. But there’s room for experimentation here too. Try adding thyme, rosemary, or sage to the filling for depth of flavor. A bit of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of balsamic vinegar will also help to deepen the richness of the meat sauce.
6. Cheesy Topping: If you want to elevate the mashed potato topping, consider mixing in some grated cheese like cheddar or Parmesan. A cheesy crust will add extra texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
7. Add a Layer of Flavor with Gravy: While the meat filling is often rich and savory, adding a layer of gravy underneath the mashed potatoes will give the pie an extra indulgent touch. You can make your own gravy or use a store-bought option, but make sure it’s a flavorful base to complement the rest of the dish.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Cottage pie is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers. However, storing it properly is key to preserving its flavor and texture. Here’s how you can store your leftovers:

1. Cool it Down: Before storing your cottage pie, let it cool completely at room temperature. Hot food placed directly into the fridge can raise the temperature inside the fridge, which can lead to bacterial growth. Ideally, you should allow the pie to cool for no more than two hours.
2. Store in an Airtight Container: Once cooled, transfer the leftover cottage pie into an airtight container. This will prevent moisture loss and protect the dish from picking up other odors in the fridge. If you have a large pie, you can also wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
3. Refrigeration: Store the cottage pie in the fridge if you plan to eat it within the next 3-4 days. If you know you won’t be able to finish it within this time frame, it’s better to freeze it.
4. Freezing for Longer Storage: To freeze cottage pie, place the pie in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. This method helps to prevent freezer burn. Make sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of how long it’s been frozen. Cottage pie can be frozen for up to 3 months.
5. Reheating: When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, the best way to reheat cottage pie is by baking it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until it’s piping hot and the top is golden and crispy. If you’re reheating from frozen, allow the pie to defrost overnight in the fridge before baking.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie?

Cottage pie is rich and filling on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a truly memorable meal. Here are some side dish ideas that complement the dish beautifully:

1. Green Vegetables: Fresh, lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or peas make for the perfect side dish. Their freshness helps cut through the richness of the cottage pie and adds a burst of color to the plate.
2. A Crisp Salad: A light, crisp salad can balance out the heaviness of the pie. Consider a simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a tangy coleslaw to add crunch and freshness.
3. Roast Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or even Brussels sprouts make an excellent side to cottage pie. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the pie.
4. Garlic Bread: For those who love extra carbs (and who doesn’t?), garlic bread is a great addition. The buttery, garlicky bread provides a contrast to the rich and hearty pie, and it’s perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy.
5. Pickles or Chutney: Adding a tangy condiment like pickle or chutney can provide a sharp contrast to the deep, savory flavors of the cottage pie. A sweet and tangy chutney, in particular, works very well with the meaty filling.
6. Mashed Parsnips or Cauliflower: For a lighter twist, you could serve your cottage pie with mashed parsnips or cauliflower instead of the usual mashed potatoes. They offer a similar texture but with a slightly different flavor profile.

Conclusion

The Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie is a classic for a reason: it’s comforting, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers. Whether you’re looking to give it a simple twist by changing up the meat or experimenting with new vegetables, the possibilities are endless.

Don’t forget to properly store your leftovers to enjoy them at a later time, and consider pairing your pie with some fresh vegetables, a crisp salad, or garlic bread to make the meal complete. Whatever route you choose, cottage pie is sure to remain a beloved staple in your kitchen.

FAQs

What Makes The Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie Recipe Unique?

The Hairy Bikers’ cottage pie recipe is unique because it uses a rich combination of minced beef, vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. Their recipe is particularly known for the depth of flavor in the meat filling, which is enhanced by the addition of herbs like thyme and bay leaves, along with a touch of Worcestershire sauce. The mashed potato topping is velvety and flavorful, providing a perfect contrast to the savory filling.

Can I Make The Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the Hairy Bikers’ cottage pie ahead of time. You can assemble the pie, including the meat filling and mashed potato topping, and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

This makes it a great option for meal prep or for serving guests. If you’re making it in advance, be sure to let it cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge, and then bake it as directed when you’re ready to serve.

What Are Some Variations I Can Make To The Hairy Bikers’ Cottage Pie Recipe?

There are several variations you can try with the Hairy Bikers’ cottage pie recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For example, you can substitute the minced beef with lamb for a traditional shepherd’s pie, or opt for a vegetarian version by using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.

Adding extra vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the meat filling can also enhance the flavor. You could also experiment with different herbs or top the pie with cheese for a richer flavor.