Hachis parmentier, French shepherd's pie

Steps

1. 1

   Peel the potatoes, cut them into chunks, and boil in salted water until completely tender.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, cook the finely chopped onion and carrot in a little butter. Add the ground beef and cook until well browned.

3. 3

   Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and stock. Simmer for 10 minutes until the filling is savory and moist but not watery.

4. 4

   Drain the potatoes and mash with the remaining butter and warm milk. Season well; the mash should be smooth and supple.

5. 5

   Spread the beef mixture in a baking dish, cover with the mashed potatoes, and scatter over the Gruyère. Rough up the surface with a fork for extra browning.

6. 6

   Bake at 200°C until the top is golden and lightly crisp on the ridges, about 20 minutes.