Hachis Parmentier (French Beef & Mashed Potato Casserole)
A classic French comfort dish similar to cottage pie—rich, hearty, and family-friendly.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Meat Filling:
- 400–500 g ground beef (or mixed meat)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 100 g peas
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional but traditional)
- 200 ml beef broth
- Salt and black pepper
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 800 g potatoes
- 30 g butter
- 100 ml milk
- Salt to taste
For the Topping:
- 100 g shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Filling
In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion until soft.
Add the ground beef and cook until nicely browned.
Stir in the diced carrots and peas.
Add the beef broth and tomato paste, then season with salt and pepper.
Simmer for 15–20 minutes until slightly saucy (not dry).
2. Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil the potatoes until tender.
Mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt to taste.
3. Assemble the Dish
Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish.
Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface.
Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
4. Bake
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake for 25–30 minutes until heated through.
Finish under the broiler for a golden, crispy crust.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Complete, balanced meal : Combines protein, vegetables, and carbs
- Ultimate comfort food: Warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying
- Great for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day
- Kid-friendly: Mild flavors and creamy texture
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with different meats or veggies
Pro Tips for Perfect Hachis Parmentier
- Brown the meat well for a deeper, richer flavor
- Cut vegetables small for even cooking and better texture
- Keep the filling slightly saucy to prevent dryness
- Use warm milk in mash for extra smooth potatoes
- Add cheese generously for a golden, flavorful crust
- Broil at the end for a perfectly crispy top
- Let it rest 10 minutes before serving for clean slices
Variations
- Use lamb instead of beef for a Shepherd’s Pie version
- Add more tomato sauce for a richer, slightly tangy flavor
- Add garlic or herbs (thyme, parsley) for extra aroma
- Mix in vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms
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Expected Result
A golden, slightly crispy top layer, with creamy mashed potatoes over a juicy, flavorful meat filling—perfectly balanced and irresistibly comforting.