Slow Cooker Cottage Pie

Slow Cooker Cottage Pie – the ultimate time, money, and calorie saver! This one-pot wonder is designed to cut corners without compromising taste. At just £1.70 per serving, it’s a budget-friendly delight you can’t resist!

Can you make cottage pie in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily make a cottage pie in the slow cooker. The slow cooking process brings out rich, comforting flavours in the mince and allows for a hands-off, hearty family meal.

Do I need to brown the mince before adding it to the slow cooker?

While not strictly necessary, browning the mince first enhances the flavour and improves texture. It also helps reduce excess fat and gives the dish a richer, more traditional taste.

Can I put mashed potato on top in the slow cooker?

Yes! You can spoon the mashed potato directly over the mince mixture and let it cook together. Some people add the mash in the final hour to prevent it becoming too soft.

What’s the difference between cottage pie and shepherd’s pie?

Cottage pie is made with beef mince, while shepherd’s pie uses lamb mince. This slow cooker recipe uses beef, so it’s a classic cottage pie.

How long does cottage pie take in the slow cooker?

Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add the mash halfway through if you want a layered top, or serve it fresh over the beef when ready.

Is slow cooker cottage pie freezer-friendly?

Yes. Let it cool fully, then portion into containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use instant mash in this recipe?

Yes, instant mash works well if you’re short on time. Just prepare it separately and layer it on top before the final hour of cooking.

@boredoflunch

Slowcooker Cottage Pie 🥧 AD    The one pot pie you need, made with the gorgeously rich @knorr beef stock to make it even more delicious, and costing just £1.70 per serving to make (Serves 5) #slowcooker #slowcookerrecipes #crockpotrecipes #crockpot #onepot #pie #fyp    Ingredients:  •600g lean beef mince  •700g cheesy leftover mash  •100ml Beef stock  •2 carrots  •1 celery stick  •1 onion  •Salt and pepper  •1 tbsp tomato purée  •1 can of chopped tomatoes  •1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce  •Fresh Rosemary  •1 tbsp garlic purée  •Dash of red wine  •1 tbsp cornflour  •Parsley to garnish    1. Add everything, apart from the mash, to the slow cooker and cook on high for 3.5 hours. 2. Once cooked remove the bay leaves and top with your mash. 3. Add your oven safe slowcooker pot without the lid and grill for 7 minutes to crispen up the top.   Serve with veg and enjoy 😊    #GiveItMoreWithKnorr #KnorrUK

♬ Faded (Remix) – Jail maiden

What vegetables can I add to the filling?

Popular additions include carrots, peas, onions, celery, and mushrooms. They add nutrition, flavour and bulk — perfect for family meals.

Is this a good recipe for kids?

Absolutely. Cottage pie is a traditional family-friendly dish, and cooking it in the slow cooker makes it extra soft and easy to eat.

More easy family slow cooker meals

• Slow Cooker Classic Chicken Curry
• Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
• Slow Cooker Irish Savoury Mince & Carrots

For more delicious slow cooker recipes like this slow cooker cottage pie, take a look at my latest cookbooks Slow Cooker Even Easier and The Healthy Slow Cooker.