Wild Game Cottage Pie Recipe: A Hunter’s Comfort Classic

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. lean ground venison (or beef)
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped with a clean, sharp knife
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 Tbsp. butter
• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh thyme sprigs, tied in a bundle
• 2 dried bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 1/2 lbs. potatoes (russets or golds), peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 6 Tbsp. butter, divided
• 1 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese, divided