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.
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
900g potatoes, peeled and chopped
50g butter
100ml warm milk or cream
Salt and pepper
Optional: grated cheddar for topping
Peel and chop the potatoes. Add them to salted boiling water and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
Mash the potatoes with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy. Set aside.
Heat oil in a large pan. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add minced beef or lamb to the pan. Cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Stir in tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Pour in the beef stock. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until thickened and rich. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Transfer the meat mixture into your baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes on top and spread evenly. Use a fork to create ridges.
Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top for extra golden crispiness.
Bake at 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Let it rest a few minutes, then serve with peas, greens, or a fresh salad.
Find it online: https://maryberrycooks.co.uk/mary-berry-highland-pie/