Classic Hachis Parmentier Recipe: A French Comfort Food

Hachis Parmentier is a traditional French recipe combining seasoned ground meat and smooth mashed potatoes, baked to golden perfection.

This easy-to-make French Shepherd’s Pie dish is ideal for family meals or weekly meal prep.

Learn with me how to create this comforting French favorite with our simple Hachis Parmentier recipe.

staple dish french cottage pie : hachis parmentier

Hachis Parmentier is a classic French dish that’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor.

Often misspelled as hachi parmentier or hachie parmentier, this dish is France’s answer to Shepherd’s Pie — but with its own delicious twist.

It’s made with layers of well-seasoned ground meat, usually beef, mixed with carrots, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and other tasty additions.

It’s all topped with creamy mashed potatoes, then baked until golden and crispy on top.

At home, mashed potatoes are a favorite for my husband, but not so much for the kids.

Every time I suggest mashed potatoes, they ask for lasagna instead. It’s a real challenge trying to please everyone at the dinner table!

One day, I decided to make Hachis Parmentier — just because I love it.

And guess what? Everyone ate without a single complaint. Not even a comment!

Turns out, this comforting dish was the hidden hero all along.

Now it’s on our menu at least every two weeks, and it’s a meal we all actually enjoy together.

Give it a try — it might become your family’s favorite too!

Ingredients for Classic Hachis Parmentier :French Beef and Potato Casserole

To make a rich and comforting Hachis Parmentier, or french Shepherd’s pie here are the ingredients you’ll need, with details to help you get the best results:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of potatoes – Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold for a smooth, fluffy mash.
• 400 g (14 oz) of ground beef – Choose lean or regular minced beef depending on your preference for flavor and richness.
• 1 onion – Finely chopped to add sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
• 1 garlic clove – Crushed or minced to bring out a warm, savory aroma.
• ½ bunch of fresh parsley – Chopped, for a touch of freshness in the filling.
• 1 egg – Used to bind the mashed potatoes and help them hold together nicely.
• 100 g (7 tbsp) of butter – For a creamy, rich mashed potato topping.
• 300 ml (1 ¼ cups) of milk – Warmed and mixed into the mash for smooth texture.
• A pinch of ground nutmeg – Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the mashed potatoes.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning both the meat and the mash.

How to Make Hachis Parmentier Step-by-Step (Easy French Recipe Instructions)

Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious and authentic Hachis Parmentier at home:

1. Cook the Potatoes:
   • Peel the potatoes and place them in a large pot of salted water.
   • Bring to a boil and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
2. Prepare the Meat Filling:
   • Finely chop the onion and garlic. Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté the onion and garlic until soft and translucent.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in the chopped parsley, season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.
3. Combine the Meat Mixture:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, sautéed onion, garlic, chopped parsley, and a whole egg. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
4. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
   • Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly. Mash them until smooth using a potato masher or ricer.
   • Warm the milk gently in a saucepan. Add the butter to the mashed potatoes, then gradually pour in the warm milk, mixing until the mash is smooth and creamy.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
5. Assemble the Hachis Parmentier:
   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
   • Butter a baking dish. Spread half of the mashed potatoes evenly over the bottom.
   • Add the meat mixture on top, spreading it out evenly. Cover with the remaining mashed potatoes. For a pretty finish, use a piping bag to create a decorative top layer. (Optional: sprinkle grated cheese over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.)
6. Bake and Serve:
   • Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown, about 25–30 minutes.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your warm, comforting Hachis Parmentier with a green salad!

Cooking Tips and Delicious Variations for Hachis Parmentier

Make your Hachis Parmentier even better with these practical tips and tasty twists.

Whether you’re prepping ahead or customising it for your diet, these ideas will help you create the perfect dish every time.

– How to Get a Perfectly Golden Crust ?

To achieve that irresistible crispy golden top, use a piping bag to neatly layer the mashed potatoes, then gently score the surface with a fork. This creates more texture and surface area to brown.

For an extra-crispy finish, brush the top with a bit of melted butter or sprinkle on grated cheese before baking.

You can even pop it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end — just watch it closely!

– Make It Ahead or Freeze It

Hachis Parmentier is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.

To freeze, wrap the dish in plastic wrap and foil — it keeps well for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. Great for busy weeknights!

– Optional Add-Ins for More Flavor

• Cheese: Add shredded Gruyère, Emmental, or cheddar between the layers or on top for a cheesy boost.
• Vegetables: Finely chopped carrots, peas, spinach, or mushrooms can be cooked with the meat to add nutrients and texture.
• Herbs & Seasonings: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a dash of paprika can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

– Lighter & Healthier Versions

Watching your calories? Try these swaps:

• Use lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken instead of regular beef.
• Replace half (or all) of the potatoes with cauliflower mash for a low-carb version — still creamy and satisfying!
• Swap butter with olive oil or a plant-based spread.
• Add lentils to the meat for a fiber-rich, budget-friendly boost.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hachis Parmentier

Here are some of the most common questions people ask when making or serving Hachis Parmentier, with helpful answers based on my experience and the best practices you can do.

– Can I freeze Hachis Parmentier?

Yes, Hachis Parmentier freezes beautifully!
You can freeze it before or after baking:

• Before baking: Assemble the dish completely, let it cool, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• After baking: Let it cool completely, portion if desired, and store in airtight containers. It also lasts up to 3 months in the freezer.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 180°C (350°F) until hot throughout. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning, and remove it near the end to crisp the top.

 – What’s the best meat to use for Hachis Parmentier?

Traditionally, ground beef is used — it’s flavorful, hearty, and widely available.
You can also try:

• Ground lamb for a richer, more traditional Shepherd’s Pie-style taste.
• Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• A mix of beef and pork for added juiciness.
• Lentils or plant-based mince for a vegetarian version.

Whatever you choose, make sure to season well and brown it properly to develop flavor.

– How long does Hachis Parmentier keep in the fridge?

Once cooked, Hachis Parmentier can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until piping hot. If using the oven, cover loosely with foil to prevent the top from drying out.

– Can I add cheese to Hachis Parmentier?

Absolutely — cheese lovers, rejoice! While not always traditional, many families top their Hachis Parmentier with grated Gruyère, Emmental, cheddar, or even Parmesan for a golden, bubbly crust.

You can also mix some cheese into the mashed potatoes for extra richness.

– Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes, this is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prep the entire dish the night before — assemble it, cover, and refrigerate.

When ready to bake, just take it out of the fridge while the oven preheats and cook as directed.

It’s a great option for dinner parties, holidays, or busy weekdays.

Other dishes to try

• French boeuf bourguignon-beef bourguignon
• Indian Chicken Biryani Recipe
• One pot creamy tomato beef pasta