Simple Cottage Pie

Acquire all necessary ingredients beforehand.

Heat a substantial skillet over an elevated heat setting, medium-high. Sear ground beef in the hot skillet until it reaches a desirable brown color and crumbly texture, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Introduce the onion and carrot into the skillet; cook and stir until the onion has softened, roughly 5 minutes. Combine flour, Italian seasoning, and cinnamon into the mixture; stir in parsley.

Mingle beef broth and tomato paste together in a container; merge with the beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste; reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened slightly. Preheat your oven to a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).

Simultaneously, submerge diced potatoes in a medium-sized saucepan; cover with water and place over high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15 minutes; drain excess water. Mash the potatoes into a smooth consistency, then blend with milk and butter until fluffy; season with salt and pepper.

Pour the ground beef mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish; spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top and sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese.

Place the ground beef mixture in the preheated oven until the top is browned and the cheese has melted, roughly 25 minutes.