Protein-Packed Cottage Pie

Approx. macros per serve

Macros are an estimate only and will vary depending on the ingredients and unflavoured protein product used.

Make it your way

You can use almost any unflavoured protein product in this recipe. Unflavoured collagen is one of the easiest options because it dissolves smoothly into the filling, but unflavoured whey, casein or plant-based protein can also work. If using a protein powder that tends to thicken, mix it with a little cool stock first and add it gradually over low heat.

1. Prepare the potatoes.
Add the chopped potatoes to a saucepan of salted water and boil until tender.

2. Make the mash.
Drain the potatoes, then mash with the milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

3. Cook the beef.
Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef mince, onion and carrot and cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables have softened.

4. Build the filling.
Stir through the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce and mixed herbs. Pour in the beef stock and simmer until the mixture begins to thicken.

5. Add your protein.
Reduce the heat to low. Stir through the unflavoured collagen until completely combined. If using another unflavoured protein powder, mix it with a small amount of cool stock first before gradually stirring it into the mince mixture.

6. Add the vegetables.
Stir through the frozen peas and season the filling with salt and cracked black pepper.

7. Assemble.
Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Spoon the mashed potato over the top and gently spread it to the edges.

8. Finish with cheese.
Sprinkle the grated cheese over the mashed potato.

9. Bake.
Bake at 200°C for approximately 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Protein tip

Adding protein to savoury meals doesn’t have to mean changing the recipe completely. Neutral, unflavoured protein products can often be stirred into sauces, soups, stews, mince dishes and other moisture-rich meals for an easy protein boost.