Classic Cottage Pie

• 1 1/4 pounds potatoes, any variety, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 large cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 2/3 cup cheddar cheese, divided (1/3, 1/3)
• 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 (12 oz) package frozen peas and carrots
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup broth, vegetable or beef
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasonings
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1/2 cup half-and-half (more if needed)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into single tablespoons

PREPARATION

1. Boil water in a large saucepan. Place potatoes in water and boil 20 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F.
3. Brown ground meat in large skillet, drain. Return meat to pan and add frozen vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, broth, Italian seasonings, minced garlic, and ketchup. Stir to incorporate and cook for 5-7 minutes.
4. Drain potatoes and return to pot. Mash in sour cream, butter, and half-and half, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper (more or less, to taste), whipping until smooth.
5. Mix 1/3 cup cheese into potatoes.
6. Pour meat mixture into greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon and spread potatoes on top of meat layer.
7. Bake 25 minutes. Pour rest of cheese on top and bake another 5 minutes, or until cheese begins to brown.