turkey cottage pie recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best turkey cottage pie recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite turkey cottage pie recipe. This dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. I remember growing up, my mom would make this recipe for family gatherings and special events, and it was always a hit.

The combination of tender turkey, flavorful vegetables, and a rich gravy all topped with a crispy mashed potato crust is simply irresistible. As a busy mom myself, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to make. It’s a one-dish wonder that can be prepared in advance and refrigerated or frozen for later use.

And the best part? It’s a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies! My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients and stirring the mixture, and they always ask for seconds (and thirds!)

But what really sets this recipe apart is its rich history. Cottage pie has been a beloved dish in the UK for centuries, and its origins date back to the 18th century when housekeepers would use leftover meat and vegetables to create hearty meals for their families. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and flavors, but its core remains the same – a comforting, satisfying meal that brings people together.

One of the key techniques that makes this recipe so special is the way the ingredients are layered. By cooking the turkey and vegetables separately before adding them to the potato crust, we create a rich, flavorful filling that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And don’t even get me started on the mashed potatoes – they’re the perfect complement to this dish!

Turkey Cottage Pie

4.7 from 690 votes

A comforting twist on the classic cottage pie, using lean ground turkey in a rich, savory gravy topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and uses simple ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time60 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Filling

1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb ground turkey
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 cup frozen peas
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2Place the potato chunks in a pot of salted cold water, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until fork-tender.
3While potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4Add onion, carrots, and celery, and saute for 5 to 7 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula.
6Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until no longer pink, then stir in thyme, rosemary, tomato paste, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
7Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, then fold in frozen peas and season with salt and pepper.
8Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot.
9Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy.
10Stir in cheddar cheese if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
11Transfer the turkey filling to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
12Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top and spread them to the edges, creating peaks with a fork for a crispy finish.
13Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the filling is bubbling and the potato topping is golden brown.
14Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Pot for boiling potatoes
Potato masher or ricer
9×13 inch baking dish
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For a lighter topping, use low-fat milk and reduce butter to 2 tablespoons. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika on the potatoes before baking for extra color.

Watch Video Of How Turkey Cottage Pie Works

To store leftover turkey cottage pie, let it cool completely then cover the dish with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. For reheating, I prefer to use the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes to keep the potato topping crispy, but the microwave works in a pinch.

You can also reheat individual slices in a skillet with a lid for a few minutes. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings because it is easy to double and feeds a crowd. I often serve it with a simple green salad or steamed green beans on the side.

It also works well for potlucks since it travels nicely in a covered dish. Whether you are using leftover holiday turkey or fresh ground turkey, this cottage pie always delivers comfort and flavor. It is a reliable, no-fuss meal that everyone enjoys.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Cottage Pie

Q: What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho. These varieties will yield a light and fluffy mash that complements the rich flavors of the filling.

Q: Can I use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving instead of buying fresh meat?

A: Absolutely! In fact, using leftover turkey is one of the best ways to repurpose last week’s holiday meal. Just be sure to reheat it until it’s steaming hot before adding it to the filling.

Q: How do I know if my cottage pie is done?

A: To check if your cottage pie is done, insert a knife or fork into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s ready to serve!

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes! One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble all of the ingredients up to an hour before baking, then pop it in the oven when you’re ready.

Q: Is it possible to freeze this recipe for later use?

A: Yes! In fact, freezing is one of the best ways to preserve this dish for later use. Simply assemble all of the ingredients as directed above, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat from frozen.

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