Grilled Cottage Pie with Crispy Mashed Potatoes on the Arteflame

Introduction

Cottage Pie is a comforting British dish made with ground beef cooked in a savory gravy and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, which are baked to golden perfection. In this grilled version, the beef filling is cooked on the Arteflame, adding a subtle smoky flavor that elevates the dish.

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup whole milk or cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

Light your Arteflame grill by placing vegetable oil-soaked napkins under stacked firewood. Let it heat for about 20 minutes. The outer flat top will be used for cooking the filling and potatoes.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef Filling

Melt the butter or oil on the outer flat top of the grill and sauté the chopped onions and carrots for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir well to incorporate. Slowly add the beef stock and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Stir in the peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Cottage Pie

Transfer the beef filling to a cast-iron skillet or grill-safe baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the beef, using a fork to create ridges that will crisp up during cooking.

Step 5: Grill the Cottage Pie

Place the skillet or baking dish on the outer flat top of the grill. Cover loosely with foil or a grill-safe lid and cook for about 20-25 minutes. For the last 5 minutes, remove the cover to allow the top of the mashed potatoes to turn golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Once the cottage pie is golden brown and bubbly, remove it from the grill. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and enjoy with a side of steamed greens or a simple salad.

Tips

• Crisp the potato topping: Use the grill to crisp up the ridges of the mashed potatoes for extra texture.
• Simmer the filling: Let the beef filling simmer to reduce and thicken, creating a rich, savory base for the pie.

Variations

1. Shepherd's Pie: Use ground lamb instead of beef for a traditional Shepherd's Pie.
2. Vegetarian Cottage Pie: Replace the beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of vegetables for a meat-free version.
3. Cheesy Cottage Pie: Add grated cheddar cheese to the mashed potatoes for a rich, cheesy topping.
4. Spicy Cottage Pie: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika to the beef filling for a spicy kick.
5. Cauliflower Mash Cottage Pie: Use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lower-carb option.

Best Pairings

• Steamed green beans or peas: A simple side that pairs well with the rich beef filling.
• Yorkshire pudding: For an extra traditional British element.
• Red wine: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the savory beef and rich flavors of the pie.

Conclusion

This Grilled Cottage Pie is a smoky twist on the classic dish, with a savory beef filling and golden mashed potatoes cooked to perfection on the Arteflame. It’s the perfect comforting meal for a family dinner or gathering.