Table of Contents
Description
This Keto Cottage Pie & Cheesy Mash is hearty, low-carb, and loaded with flavor—perfect for cozy dinners without the carbs.
Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, bubbling casserole fresh from the oven—especially when it’s topped with creamy, cheesy mash and filled with rich, savory meat underneath. This Keto Cottage Pie & Cheesy Mash brings all the nostalgic flavors of the classic dish while keeping things low-carb, sugar-free, and perfectly keto-friendly.
Traditional cottage pie relies heavily on potatoes, which can make it tricky for anyone following a keto lifestyle. But with a clever swap—fluffy mashed cauliflower blended with butter and melted cheese—you still get that velvety topping you crave. Underneath, seasoned ground beef simmers with garlic, onions, herbs, and a splash of broth to create a hearty filling that feels indulgent but fits your healthy goals.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, feeding a hungry family, or just craving something cozy on a chilly evening, this easy keto recipe checks all the boxes. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and packed with flavor in every bite 😍
Recipe Stat Sheet (Quick Overview)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Keto Cottage Pie & Cheesy Mash |
| Cuisine | American-Inspired |
| Diet Type | Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best For | Dinner, Meal Prep, Comfort Food |
Recipe Equipment
To make this dish smooth and stress-free, gather:
- Large skillet
- Saucepan or steamer basket
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
- Potato masher or food processor
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 1½ lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (sugar-free)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (low-carb)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Mash Topping
- 1 large head cauliflower, chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Why these ingredients work:
Cauliflower creates a creamy low-carb mash, while cheeses add richness. Beef broth and herbs deepen the filling’s flavor without extra carbs.
Ingredient Notes
- Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 for juicy results.
- Cauliflower: Steam until fork-tender for silky mash.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings bold flavor.
- Broth: Homemade or low-sodium keeps sodium in check.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Always check for sugar-free versions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft and fragrant. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef, breaking it apart until browned and golden.
2. Build Flavor
Stir in tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 8–10 minutes until thick and rich.
3. Make the Cheesy Mash
Steam cauliflower until tender. Transfer to a bowl and mash or blend with butter and cream until silky smooth.
Fold in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
4. Assemble
Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the cheesy mash over the top, smoothing with a spatula.
5. Bake
Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Pro Tips & Variations
For extra flavor, stir mushrooms or diced zucchini into the beef mixture. Swap ground turkey for a lighter version, or add smoked paprika for a deeper profile. If you love crispy edges, broil the top for two minutes before serving. Make it dairy-free by using coconut cream and vegan cheese alternatives. This casserole stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for weekly meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Keto Cottage Pie & Cheesy Mash with:
- Garlic-buttered green beans
- Simple arugula salad
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Keto dinner rolls
It’s a complete meal that feels special yet simple.
Storage Information
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F or microwave gently.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Estimated)
- Calories: 420
- Net Carbs: 6g
- Fat: 32g
- Protein: 26g
This Keto Cottage Pie & Cheesy Mash proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be carb-heavy to be satisfying. It’s cozy, hearty, and packed with flavor—perfect for weeknights or make-ahead dinners.
Try it out and let me know how it turned out in the comments! Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow keto lovers 🧀🥧