Cottage pie in Air Fryer Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Cottage Pie combines classic comfort food with modern convenience. The rich, savory meat filling is topped with creamy mashed potatoes that turn golden and slightly crisp in the air fryer. It’s a quick and easy take on the traditional dish, perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the air fryer creates a perfectly crispy potato topping in record time!

Air Fryer Cottage Pie Recipe

A simplified and delicious version of this British classic, made quickly and easily in the air fryer.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

Mashed Potato Topping

• 2 cups prepared instant mashed potatoes or leftover mashed potatoes
• ¼ cup milk
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)

Filling

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 packet brown gravy mix (about 3 tablespoons)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the prepared mashed potatoes, milk, melted butter, and cheddar cheese (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or lamb, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the frozen mixed vegetables, gravy mix, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and 1 cup of water. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 7–9 minutes, or until the filling thickens.

Step 3: Assemble the Cottage Pie

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the meat mixture to a heat-safe or air fryer-safe pan. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly over the top, smoothing it with a spatula.

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer

1. Place the assembled pie in the air fryer basket.
2. Cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the mashed potato topping is golden and slightly crispy.
3. Carefully remove the pan from the air fryer. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Use a Heat-Safe Pan: Ensure your pan is safe for air fryer use. A round air fryer pan works perfectly for this recipe.
• Check Pan Size: Before assembling, confirm that the pan fits inside your air fryer basket.
• Vegetable Options: You can substitute fresh vegetables for frozen ones—just make sure they’re finely diced and adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Cottage Pie vs. Shepherd’s Pie: Cottage pie uses beef, while shepherd’s pie traditionally uses lamb. Feel free to use whichever meat you prefer!
• Homemade Mashed Potatoes: If you prefer fresh mashed potatoes, bake 4 medium russet potatoes at 390°F in the air fryer for 40–45 minutes until tender. Scoop out the flesh, mash, and season to taste.

Tips and Tricks

1. Crispier Topping: For an extra crispy topping, add a sprinkle of cheddar cheese over the potatoes before air frying.
2. Shortcut Gravy: If you don’t have gravy mix, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 1 cup of beef broth for a quick alternative.
3. Layer for Flavor: Spread the potatoes evenly to ensure every bite has a balanced mix of creamy topping and savory filling.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pie and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. Increase cooking time by 5 minutes to ensure it heats through.

2. Can I freeze leftover Cottage Pie?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.

3. What other vegetables can I use?
Try diced carrots, peas, corn, or even mushrooms for added flavor and variety.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground meat for a plant-based alternative or cooked lentils, and use a vegetable-based gravy mix.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, or in the oven until warmed through.

Enjoy this easy, comforting Cottage Pie with its crispy, golden potato topping and rich, flavorful filling. It’s the perfect meal for cozy evenings