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Mary Berry Highland Pie Recipe

Mary Berry Highland Pie

Mary Berry’s Highland Pie is a savory meat pie layered with a rich minced-beef filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s similar to a cottage pie but includes deeper flavors from Worcestershire sauce, herbs, and well-cooked vegetables. The result is a comforting baked dish with a golden crust and a melt-in-the-mouth interior.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Minced Meat Filling:

  • 500g minced beef or lamb

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 2 celery sticks, diced

  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed

  • 2 tbsp tomato puree

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1 tsp dried rosemary

  • 300ml beef stock

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

  • 900g potatoes, peeled and chopped

  • 50g butter

  • 100ml warm milk or cream

  • Salt and pepper

  • Optional: grated cheddar for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and chop the potatoes. Add them to salted boiling water and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

Mash the potatoes with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Meat Filling

Heat oil in a large pan. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Step 4: Brown the Mince

Add minced beef or lamb to the pan. Cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Step 5: Add Flavors

Stir in tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 6: Add Stock and Simmer

Pour in the beef stock. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until thickened and rich. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Assemble the Pie

Transfer the meat mixture into your baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes on top and spread evenly. Use a fork to create ridges.

Step 8: Optional Cheese Topping

Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top for extra golden crispiness.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake at 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Let it rest a few minutes, then serve with peas, greens, or a fresh salad.