Low-Carb Cottage Pie With Cauliflower Mash
This Low-Carb Cottage Pie with Cauliflower Mash is a cozy, comforting dinner that delivers all the richness of a traditional cottage pie in a lighter way. The creamy cauliflower topping bakes to a golden finish over a savory turkey filling, creating a hearty casserole that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or any time you’re craving classic comfort food.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Medium pot or steamer basket
- Blender or food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (2-quart capacity)
Ingredients
For the Turkey Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup frozen peas
For the Cauliflower Mash
- 1 large head cauliflower cut into florets (about 5 cups)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Assembly
- 1 tablespoon butter for dotting on top
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Turkey Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Once the turkey is browned, add chicken broth and peas. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Prepare the Cauliflower Mash:
- Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until very tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and transfer to a blender or food processor.
- Add butter, cream cheese, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Assemble and Bake the Pie:
- Preheat the oven to 400℉.
- Spread the cooked turkey mixture evenly into a baking dish. Spoon the cauliflower mash on top and smooth it out. Use a fork to create light ridges for browning. Dot with butter.
- Bake at 400℉ for 20-25 minutes until the top is lightly golden and bubbling around the edges. For deeper color, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add a handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the mash before baking for a cheesier finish.
- Swap ground turkey for chicken or beef if preferred.
- Make ahead: assemble the pie, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- To freeze: cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warm throughout.
