📍 Where this dish comes from: County Kerry · Killarney National Park
Discover the history of this region →
Discover the history of this region →
This Keto Irish Cottage Pie is a low-carb spin on a classic dish, replacing the traditional potato topping with creamy cauliflower mash. The savory ground beef filling, combined with flavorful vegetables and herbs, makes for a hearty and comforting meal. It’s the perfect dinner option for anyone looking for a keto-friendly version of a traditional Irish favorite.
What You’ll Need
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 340kcal
Ingredients
- For the Meat Filling
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional for keto)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme or rosemary chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Cauliflower Mash
- 1 large head of cauliflower chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the cauliflower mash: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and mash with the heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and set aside.
- Prepare the meat filling: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or lamb over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and beef broth. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a baking dish. Top with the mashed cauliflower and smooth it out. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Serve: Serve hot, and enjoy the keto-friendly version of this Irish classic.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 340kcal | Protein: 20g | Fat: 25g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Health Benefits
- Cauliflower mash replaces the traditional potato topping, cutting the carbs of this dish dramatically while keeping the comforting texture.
- A cheddar-topped, cream-enriched mash keeps fat high, in line with keto macros.
Pairs Well With
- Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad
- Dubliner Cheese and Spinach Salad

