Classic French Shepherd's Pie
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Classic French Shepherd's Pie, inspired by the elegance of French cuisine. This delightful dish features a creamy mashed potato topping that envelops a savory filling of tender meat and aromatic onions, elevated by the luxurious addition of Swiss cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, this hearty one-dish meal is not only satisfying but also versatile, allowing you to use up leftover cooked meat or poultry. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal that brings comfort to your table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Old potatoes
2 1/4 lbs (Peeled)
Milk
1 1/2 cups
Egg
1
Grated Swiss cheese
1 cup
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Nutmeg
to taste
Leftover cooked meat or poultry
1 cup (Chopped)
Onions
2 medium (Peeled and chopped)
Tomato paste
1 tablespoon
Softened butter
3 1/2 tablespoons (Broken into pieces)
Instructions
1
Begin by boiling the peeled old potatoes in a large pot of lightly salted water for about 30 minutes, or until tender. Drain the cooked potatoes and either pass them through a food mill or mash them until completely smooth.
2
Incorporate the milk into the mashed potatoes, followed by beating in the egg, grated Swiss cheese, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix well to create a creamy potato mixture. Set aside.
3
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
4
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped leftover cooked meat or poultry, diced onions, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Use a wooden spoon to mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
5
Grease a baking dish (preferably made of porcelain or enameled cast iron) with a little butter. Spread half of the creamy mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom of the dish to create a thick layer.
6
Carefully pour in the meat and onion mixture, spreading it out evenly over the potato layer.
7
Top with the remaining mashed potatoes, using a fork to spread them out evenly and create decorative lines and patterns on the surface.
8
Dot the top layer of potatoes with small pieces of softened butter for added richness.
9
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
10
Serve the shepherd's pie hot and enjoy straight from the oven for the best flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic French Shepherd's Pie?
Classic French Shepherd's Pie, often known as Hachis Parmentier, is a comforting one-dish meal featuring a savory meat and onion filling sandwiched between layers of creamy, cheese-infused mashed potatoes.
What type of meat can be used in this recipe?
This recipe is versatile and allows for the use of any leftover cooked meat or poultry, making it an excellent way to reduce food waste.
What are 'old potatoes' and why use them?
Old potatoes are mature potatoes that are starchier than new potatoes, making them ideal for creating a smooth and fluffy mash.
How long do the potatoes need to boil?
The peeled old potatoes should be boiled in lightly salted water for approximately 30 minutes or until they are tender.
What ingredients are added to the mashed potatoes?
The potatoes are mashed and then mixed with milk, an egg, grated Swiss cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Why is an egg added to the potato mixture?
Beating an egg into the mashed potatoes helps the topping set during baking and adds a richer texture and color.
What kind of cheese is used in this French version?
This recipe specifically calls for one cup of grated Swiss cheese to be incorporated into the potato topping.
What spices are used to season the dish?
The dish is seasoned with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, which provides a classic French flavor profile.
How do I prepare the meat filling?
Combine the chopped leftover meat or poultry with diced onions and tomato paste in a mixing bowl until well incorporated.
Is the onion cooked before being added to the meat?
No, the diced onions are mixed directly with the cooked meat and tomato paste before being baked in the casserole.
What is the purpose of the tomato paste?
The tomato paste helps bind the meat mixture together and adds a concentrated savory depth to the filling.
How should the baking dish be prepared?
The baking dish, preferably made of porcelain or enameled cast iron, should be lightly greased with butter before layering.
How many layers are in the shepherd's pie?
The dish is built in three layers: half of the mashed potatoes on the bottom, the meat mixture in the middle, and the remaining potatoes on top.
How do I create the decorative top?
Use a fork to spread the top layer of potatoes, creating decorative lines and patterns which will crisp up in the oven.
Why add butter to the top of the potatoes?
Dotting the top with small pieces of softened butter helps the potato crust become golden brown and adds extra richness.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
How long does the dish take to bake?
The shepherd's pie should bake for approximately 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Is this recipe suitable for dinner parties?
Yes, its elegant French-inspired flavors and beautiful presentation make it suitable for both family gatherings and dinner parties.
Can I use poultry instead of beef?
Absolutely, the recipe specifically suggests using leftover cooked meat or poultry.
What is a good side dish for French Shepherd's Pie?
A fresh green salad is recommended to provide a crisp, light balance to the hearty casserole.
How much milk is needed for the potatoes?
The recipe calls for 1 and 1/2 cups of milk to be incorporated into the 2 and 1/4 lbs of potatoes.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Yes, the potatoes should be peeled before boiling to ensure a smooth mash.
Can I use a food mill?
Yes, the instructions suggest either passing the cooked potatoes through a food mill or mashing them until smooth.
How many onions are required?
The recipe requires two medium onions, which should be peeled and diced.
What size baking dish should I use?
While specific dimensions aren't listed, a standard porcelain or enameled cast iron casserole dish that can fit the layered ingredients is best.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers in advance and store the dish in the refrigerator before baking.
How do I know when the pie is finished cooking?
The pie is ready when the potato topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling hot.
Is this a good recipe for leftovers?
Yes, it is specifically designed to utilize leftover cooked meat or poultry effectively.
Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
While Swiss cheese is traditional for this version, you could use Gruyere or Emmental for a similar French flavor profile.
Should I serve the pie immediately?
For the best flavor and texture, it is recommended to serve the shepherd's pie hot straight from the oven.