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Julia Child Hachis Parmentier Recipe

Julia Child Hachis Parmentier Recipe

Emily Grace
The Julia Child Hachis Parmentier Recipe is a classic French comfort dish. It is similar to shepherd’s pie, made with seasoned ground beef and mashed potatoes.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine French
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the meat layer

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ½ cup beef broth

For the mashed potato layer

  • 4 large potatoes peeled and chopped
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese optional for topping

Instructions
 

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

  • Boil peeled and chopped potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes or until soft. Drain, then mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Cook the Meat Filling

  • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook one more minute.

Brown the Ground Beef

  • Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Stir in salt, pepper, thyme, tomato paste and beef broth.

Simmer the Meat Mixture

  • Reduce heat and let the beef mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally until slightly thickened and flavorful. Remove from heat when ready.

Assemble the Hachis Parmentier

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes over the meat and spread evenly.

Add Cheese Topping

  • Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese over the mashed potatoes. This will create a golden, crispy crust while baking.

Bake the Dish

  • Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The top should be lightly golden and bubbling around the edges.

Serve Warm

  • Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with a side salad or vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes for creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Don’t overcook the mashed potatoes or they will become watery.
  • Brown the beef well for maximum flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra aroma.
  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to set the layers.
Keyword Julia Child Hachis Parmentier Recipe