Easy Highland Pie Recipe by Mary Berry

Looking for a delicious, hearty British comfort dish? The Easy Highland Pie Recipe by Mary Berry is the perfect choice for family dinners, cozy meals, or classic Sunday lunches. This iconic recipe combines tender minced beef or lamb with rich gravy, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping, baked until golden and irresistible. With Mary Berry’s foolproof method, even beginner cooks can achieve a flavorful, authentic Highland Pie that’s both filling and satisfying.

To make this easy Highland pie, start by preparing your vegetables—onions, carrots, and celery—then brown the minced meat and mix it with herbs, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a thickened gravy. Boil and mash potatoes with butter and milk for a smooth, fluffy topping. Layer the meat filling in a baking dish, spread the mashed potatoes on top, and bake until the surface is crispy and golden. Optional cheddar or parmesan cheese adds a delicious, savory crust.

This homemade Highland Pie is versatile—you can substitute lamb, use sweet potatoes for the topping, or even create a vegetarian version with lentils and mushrooms. Serve it with steamed greens, peas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for winter evenings, crowd-pleasing family dinners, or make-ahead meals.

Follow this Easy Highland Pie Recipe by Mary Berry for a rich, hearty, and flavorful pie that everyone will love. For the full step-by-step instructions, ingredients, tips, and variations, see the complete recipe in given below.

What is Highland Pie?

 

Highland Pie, sometimes compared to cottage pie or shepherd’s pie, is a British dish that originated in Scotland. While cottage pie typically uses beef, shepherd’s pie uses lamb. Mary Berry’s take on this classic recipe emphasizes rich flavors, hearty fillings, and simple preparation, making it ideal for home cooks who want authentic taste without the fuss.

This dish features:

• Minced beef or lamb simmered in rich gravy
• Mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions
• A creamy mashed potato topping, baked until golden and slightly crispy

It’s a comfort food classic that appeals to every generation.

Ingredients for Easy Highland Pie by Mary Berry

 

Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Mary Berry Highland Pie:

For the Filling

• 500g minced beef (or lamb) – choose lean for a healthier version
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery sticks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 300ml beef stock
• 1 tbsp plain flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or unsalted butter
  

  

For the Topping

• 1kg potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 50g butter
• 100ml milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 50g grated cheddar cheese for a golden crust

Pro Tip: For a lighter version, swap part of the potatoes for sweet potatoes to give a subtle sweetness and creamier texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mary Berry Highland Pie

 

Follow these steps for a foolproof and hearty Highland Pie:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

 

1. Peel and chop your potatoes and boil them in salted water until tender.
2. Dice onions, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

 

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pan.
2. Brown the minced beef or lamb until fully cooked.
3. Remove the meat and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

 

1. In the same pan, add onions, carrots, and celery.
2. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft.
3. Add garlic, tomato purée, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 2 more minutes.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

 

1. Sprinkle 1 tbsp flour over the vegetables and stir well.
2. Gradually pour in beef stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Add Worcestershire sauce and simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
4. Return the cooked meat to the pan and mix thoroughly.

Tip: Simmering longer enhances the flavors and gives a richer, more savory filling.

 

Step 5: Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping

 

1. Drain the boiled potatoes and mash with butter and milk until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Optional: Mix in cheddar cheese for a crispy, golden topping.

Step 6: Assemble the Pie

 

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan) or 400°F.
2. Spread the meat and vegetable mixture in a baking dish.
3. Carefully layer the mashed potatoes on top.
4. Use a fork to create a textured surface – this helps the topping crisp beautifully.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

 

1. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
2. Optional: Place under a grill for 2–3 minutes to get a deeper golden crust.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the pie cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
3. Serve with steamed greens, peas, or a side salad.

Expert Tips to Elevate Your Highland Pie

 

1. Avoid watery filling: Make sure to simmer the gravy until thickened; this prevents soggy topping.
2. Use freshly mashed potatoes: Instant mash works in a pinch, but fresh mash delivers a richer flavor.
3. Layering technique: Ensure the meat filling is level before adding potatoes to avoid uneven baking.
4. Enhance flavors: Add a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the filling for depth.
5. Make ahead: Prepare the meat filling a day in advance; assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Variations of Highland Pie

 

• Vegetarian Highland Pie: Replace meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of roasted vegetables.
• Cheesy Potato Topping: Mix parmesan or cheddar into the mash for extra flavor.
• Slow Cooker Version: Simmer the filling in a slow cooker for 4–5 hours, then bake with mashed topping.
• Sweet Potato Twist: Half sweet potato and half regular potato for a creamy, subtly sweet mash.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve with steamed peas, carrots, or green beans.
• Modern: Pair with a fresh side salad and mustard vinaigrette.
• For Entertaining: Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Why Mary Berry’s Highland Pie is a Must-Try

 

Mary Berry’s version stands out because of:

• Simplicity: No complicated steps, perfect for beginner cooks.
• Flavor: Rich, savory filling with perfectly seasoned mashed topping.
• Versatility: Works with beef, lamb, or vegetarian substitutes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, parties, or festive occasions.

With her proven expertise in British cuisine, Mary Berry ensures that even home cooks can make this dish authentic and delicious every time.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

1. What’s the difference between Highland pie and cottage pie?

Highland Pie often includes richer seasoning and sometimes a puff pastry or mashed potato topping, while cottage pie is a simpler beef-and-potato version.

2. Can I use lamb instead of beef?

Yes! Lamb is traditional for shepherd’s pie variants and works beautifully with Mary Berry’s filling.

3. How do I prevent the topping from burning?

Cover loosely with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then uncover to brown the top.

4. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the filling in advance, assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

5. What’s the best potato for the topping?

Starchy potatoes like Maris Piper or King Edward give a fluffy, creamy texture.

6. Can I freeze Highland Pie?

Yes, freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra 15–20 minutes.

7. How do I thicken the gravy?

Sprinkle flour over vegetables before adding stock, or simmer longer until reduced.

8. Can I add cheese to the topping?

Yes! Cheddar or parmesan gives a golden, crispy finish.

9. Is this recipe family-friendly?

Yes, it’s perfect for kids and adults alike – hearty, flavorful, and filling.

10. Can I make a vegetarian version?

Definitely! Use lentils, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables as the meat substitute.

 

Conclusion

 

Mary Berry’s Easy Highland Pie Recipe is the ultimate comfort food – rich, hearty, and simple to prepare. With step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and suggested variations, this guide ensures that anyone can recreate this classic British dish at home.

Whether you’re looking for a family dinner, cozy winter meal, or a dish to impress guests, this Highland Pie is the answer. Follow the instructions, add your personal touch, and enjoy a delicious slice of British culinary heritage.