Paula's Empadão Recipe | Portuguese Cottage Pie with Beef
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Looking to spice up your dinner plans? Try this cottage pie! It’s a hearty mix of ground beef and creamy mashed potatoes that’ll hit the spot. With a savory flavor and a golden, crispy topping, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the fuss. Get ready for a comforting feast everyone will love!
Tips for Success
• When boiling the potatoes, add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance their flavor. This will ensure that the mashed potatoes are seasoned well before being added to the pie.
• To avoid a soggy bottom crust, make sure to let the beef filling cool slightly before assembling the pie. This helps prevent excess moisture from seeping into the potato layer.
• For a more complex flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture along with the red wine. This will deepen the umami notes in the filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative to make this dish lighter or vegetarian. If using a plant-based option, be sure to season it well for flavor.
How should I store leftovers of paula's empadão?
Store leftover empadão in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake it in the oven until heated through.
What should I do if my mashed potatoes are too dry?
If your mashed potatoes are too dry, you can add a little milk, cream, or melted butter to make them creamier. Mix well until you achieve your desired consistency before layering them in the casserole.
Recommended Drink Pairings
- Malbec: This red wine's bold fruit flavors and moderate tannins complement the richness of the beef.
- Chardonnay: A full-bodied white wine with buttery notes that pairs well with the creamy mashed potatoes.
- Sparkling Water: The effervescence refreshes the palate and balances the dish's richness.
- Dark Roast Coffee: The robust flavors of dark roast coffee provide a nice contrast to the savory elements of the pie.
- Ginger Ale: The sweetness and spice of ginger ale can enhance the flavors of the dish without overpowering it.
Ingredients
Equipment:
With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!
Directions
- Place a medium pot over medium heat and add the olive oil, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mixed vegetables.
- Sauté the vegetables for a few minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Incorporate the tomato paste, hot red pepper sauce, mustard, bouillon cube, paprika, black pepper, red wine, and salt.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, stirring well to break up the meat and combine with the aromatics.
- Cook the mixture for 15 minutes or until the beef is fully browned and the liquid has reduced slightly, then remove from heat.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C or 350°F.
- Grease a medium casserole dish lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Spread an even layer of the prepared mashed potatoes across the bottom of the dish.
- Pour the cooked ground beef mixture over the first layer of potatoes, smoothing it out to the edges.
- Top the meat with the remaining mashed potatoes, using a spatula to create an even surface or decorative peaks.
- Brush the beaten egg wash over the top of the mashed potatoes to ensure a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake for 30 minutes until the top is bubbling and beautifully browned.
- Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving to help the layers set.
Adapted from a Recipe by: Paula
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
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Reviews (21)
The bad part is that now I am PROHIBITED from buying or making it any other way🤣
So, Thank you for sharing it