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Cottage Pie Jacket Potatoes

Ever wondered what happens when you mix the heartiness of Cottage Pie with the comfort of Jacket Potatoes? You get pure magic! ✨ This Cottage Pie Jacket Potatoes dish is student-friendly, budget-conscious, and oh-so-satisfying! Perfect for when you’re craving comfort food that’s quick and easy to make.

Makes About 2 Servings

Ingredients

  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 250g/9oz beef mince
  • 1 tsp dried mixed herbs
  • 400g tin chopped tomatoes
  • 1 beef stock cube
  • 2 large baking potatoes (around 325g/11½oz each), washed well
  • 50g/1¾oz Cheddar, grated
  • 20g/¾oz butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Filling

In a large saucepan over medium heat, sauté the onion, beef mince, and dried mixed herbs for about 4 minutes, breaking up the beef as it cooks. Add the chopped tomatoes and crumble in the beef stock cube. Fill the empty tomato can with water and pour it into the pan. Season with salt and pepper, and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring regularly, until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

While the filling simmers, prick the baking potatoes several times with a fork. Microwave them on high for 10-12 minutes. Turn the potatoes over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until soft. Allow them to cool slightly, then cut them in half and scoop out the insides into a bowl.

3. Mash & Fill

In the bowl with the scooped-out potato, mix in half the grated Cheddar and the butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Place the empty potato skins in a microwave-safe dish. Fill them with the beef mixture, top with the mashed potato, and sprinkle the remaining Cheddar on top.

4. Finish & Serve

Microwave the filled potatoes on high for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is hot. For an extra crispy, golden top, you can pop them under a hot grill for 2-3 minutes.

Pro Tip:

Have leftover mince? Save it for tomorrow’s lunch and enjoy it with pasta, on toast, or as a topping for nachos!

Why You’ll Love It

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Hearty & Filling: The combination of minced beef and mashed potatoes is classic comfort food.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients to make a satisfying meal.
  • Versatile: Leftover mince can be repurposed into other dishes like pasta, nachos, or sloppy joes.

Tips

  • Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef mince for vegetarian mince or lentils and use a vegetable stock cube for a plant-based version.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and scoop out the potatoes in advance. When ready to serve, fill and microwave for a quick meal.
  • Add More Veggies: Add carrots, peas, or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestion

Serve your Cottage Pie Jacket Potatoes with a side of green beans or steamed broccoli. For more comfort food ideas, explore these suggestions to complement your cozy meal perfectly.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 600 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fat: 30g (10g saturates)
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Salt: 1.5g

Try It Today!

Looking for a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for students or anyone on a budget? Make these Cottage Pie Jacket Potatoes tonight and enjoy a cozy dish that’s packed with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a small group, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how much you love this hearty twist on a classic Cottage Pie!

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