Olivia Carter
Are you craving a hearty and delicious meal that is quick and easy to make? Look no further than cottage pie cooked in an air fryer! This classic dish is a favourite among many, and now you can enjoy it without all the hassle of traditional cooking methods.
Using an air fryer to make cottage pie allows you to achieve a crispy and golden crust on top, while keeping the filling moist and flavourful. The air fryer also cuts down on cooking time, making this dish perfect for busy weeknight dinners or lazy weekends.
So, how exactly do you make cottage pie in an air fryer? It’s simple! Start by preparing your filling – a rich and savoury combination of minced beef, onions, carrots, and peas, seasoned with herbs and spices. Then, transfer the filling to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Next, it’s time to make the mashed potato topping. Boil some potatoes until they are tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt. Spread the mashed potatoes over the filling in the baking dish, creating a thick and creamy layer.
Once your cottage pie is assembled, place the baking dish in the air fryer and cook at a high temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. The air fryer’s convection heat will ensure that the filling is cooked through and the potatoes are perfectly browned.
When your cottage pie is ready, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The result is a mouthwatering dish that is packed with flavour and will leave you craving for more. So, why not give cottage pie in an air fryer a try? It’s a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food favourite.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you begin making cottage pie in the air fryer, it is important to prepare all the necessary ingredients. Here is a list of what you will need:
- 500 grams of minced beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 250 milliliters of beef stock
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 750 grams of potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 50 grams of butter
- 100 milliliters of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all these ingredients measured, chopped, and ready to use before you start cooking. This will help to streamline the cooking process and ensure that everything is ready when needed.
Brown the Ground Beef
To make a delicious cottage pie in the air fryer, you’ll need to start by browning the ground beef. This step is important as it will add flavor and texture to your dish.
Heat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the ground beef in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned, using a spatula to break it up into small crumbles.
While the ground beef is cooking, you can season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings or spices. This will enhance the flavor of your cottage pie.
Once the ground beef is browned, remove it from the air fryer using oven mitts or tongs. Place the beef in a bowl lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Discard the grease from the air fryer basket and wipe it clean if necessary.
Browning the ground beef is an essential step in making a delicious cottage pie. It adds depth of flavor and creates a nice texture in the final dish. This step can be done ahead of time or right before assembling the cottage pie in the air fryer.
Sauté the Vegetables
Before assembling the cottage pie, it’s important to sauté the vegetables to bring out their flavors and ensure they’re cooked through. Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Add one finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Next, add two cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Now it’s time to add the vegetables. You can use a combination of carrots, celery, and peas for your cottage pie filling. Peel and dice one carrot, finely chop one stalk of celery, and add them to the pan.
Continue cooking the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes or until they start to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add a handful of frozen peas to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes, until heated through.
Finally, season the vegetables with salt, black pepper, and any herbs or spices you prefer. Common choices include thyme, rosemary, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine and remove the pan from heat.
Your sautéed vegetables are now ready to be used as the flavorful filling for your cottage pie!
Add the Ground Beef
Once the vegetables are cooked, it’s time to add the ground beef to your cottage pie filling. You can use either lean or regular ground beef for this recipe, depending on your preference.
Heat a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it up using a wooden spoon or spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through.
Make sure to break up any clumps of meat as you cook, so you have a nice and evenly browned filling. This will ensure that each bite of your cottage pie is packed with delicious beef flavor.
Once the ground beef is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help remove any excess grease or fat from the meat.
Feel free to season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you like. This will add extra flavor to your cottage pie.
Make the Mashed Potato Topping
Once the filling is cooked, it’s time to make the mashed potato topping for your cottage pie. Start by boiling some potatoes in a pot of salted water until they are fork-tender.
Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with a potato masher or use a hand mixer for smoother results. Make sure to add some butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste as you mash the potatoes.
For a rich and creamy texture, you can also mix in some grated cheddar cheese or sour cream. Continue mashing until the potatoes are smooth and well combined with the other ingredients.
Once your mashed potato topping is ready, spread it evenly over the cooked filling in the air fryer. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth and uniform layer.
You can also add a sprinkle of grated cheese on top if you want an extra cheesy crust.
Place the air fryer basket back into the air fryer and cook the cottage pie at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mashed potato topping is golden brown and crispy.
Remove the cottage pie from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and make it easier to cut into neat portions.
Serve your delicious cottage pie with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad, and enjoy!
Assembly and Cooking
Once your mashed potatoes and beef filling are prepared, it’s time to assemble the cottage pie in the air fryer.
Layering the Pie
Start by greasing the air fryer basket with a small amount of cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
Next, spread the beef filling evenly in the bottom of the basket. Use a spatula to smooth it out and ensure an even layer.
Once the beef filling is in place, carefully spoon the mashed potatoes on top, making sure to cover the entire surface. Use the back of a spoon to spread and smooth the potatoes, creating a nice even layer.
For an extra touch of presentation, you can use a fork to create decorative patterns on the surface of the mashed potatoes.
Cooking the Cottage Pie
Place the assembled cottage pie in the air fryer and cook at 180°C (356°F) for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Keep an eye on the pie as it cooks, as cooking times may vary depending on your specific air fryer model.
Once cooked, carefully remove the cottage pie from the air fryer using oven mitts or tongs. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning yourself.
Serve the cottage pie hot, and enjoy!
Tip: If you want to add a little extra crispiness to the mashed potato topping, you can sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the assembled pie before cooking. The cheese will melt and create a delicious golden crust.
FAQ
What is cottage pie?
Cottage pie is a traditional British dish made with minced meat, typically beef, and topped with mashed potatoes.
Can I make cottage pie in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make cottage pie in an air fryer. The air fryer provides a quick and efficient way to cook the meat and potatoes, resulting in a crispy and delicious dish.
