There’s something truly magical about a minced beef hotpot, especially when it’s crowned with layers of golden, crispy potatoes. My version of this classic comfort, Crispy Potato Topped Meat Pie – Minced Beef Hotpot, is a family favorite that never fails to earn seconds at the dinner table. The rich gravy bubbles up beneath tender beef and sweet vegetables, while the potato slices bake to crunchy, golden perfection. The best part? Even though it tastes like a labor of love, this recipe has a 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight feast or a cozy weekend gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This humble pie is all about smart, simple ingredients—each chosen because it brings a pop of flavor, a new texture, or just the right color to the dish. Together, they create something much greater than the sum of their parts.
- 500g (17.5oz) extra lean beef mince: The juicy, hearty base that gives your hotpot its rich, satisfying taste.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Infuses a gentle sweetness that mellows the savory beef.
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed: Adds a bold, aromatic kick that weaves through the filling.
- 2 carrots, chopped: A splash of color and subtle sweetness to round out the flavor.
- 2 sticks of celery, chopped: Brings earthiness and a satisfying bite to the mix.
- 3/4 cup (120g) frozen peas: Bursts of freshness added right at the end, keeping things bright and green.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Deepens the color and delivers a tangy, savory punch to the gravy.
- 2 cups (480ml) beef or vegetable stock: The secret to a luscious, rich sauce that soaks up every flavor.
- 1 heaped tsp marmite (optional): For a hit of umami that makes the gravy unforgettable.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: An herby note that brings cozy warmth and depth to the filling.
- Dash of balsamic vinegar: Brightens up the sauce and balances the richness of the meat.
- 1kg (2.25lb) potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly: The crowning glory; thin slices get ultra-crispy and golden on top.
- Low calorie spray: A light mist ensures your potatoes crisp without heavy greasiness.
How to Make 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Veggies
Start by heating a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the extra lean beef mince, and as it sizzles, toss in the chopped onion, celery, crushed garlic, thyme, and carrots. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the vegetables have softened slightly—this layering of flavors sets a savory foundation you just can’t skip.
Step 2: Build the Gravy
Now the magic really begins. Stir in the tomato paste, pour over the beef or vegetable stock, and add the marmite if you like a deep, savory hit. A splash of balsamic vinegar rounds everything out with a hint of tang. Bring the whole mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10 minutes so it thickens and all the flavors meld. Taste, then season with a generous pinch of salt and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While your mince gravy is bubbling away, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan, 400°F, or gas mark 6). You’ll want it nice and hot for that classic, golden potato crunch which is the hallmark of 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spoon the meat mixture into a roomy ovenproof dish. Scatter the frozen peas over the top and gently fold them in for bursts of brightness. Now, lay your peeled and thinly sliced potatoes over the meat, overlapping them slightly to create that gorgeous, mosaic top. Give the potatoes a generous spritz with low calorie spray—this is the secret to an irresistibly crisp topping!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your pie into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until those potato slices are beautifully golden and crisp. The aromas will fill your kitchen, and you’ll know you’re approaching the delicious finale of your 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes journey.
How to Serve 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes
Garnishes
Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of green and a fresh, herby note. A light dusting of flaky sea salt and cracked black pepper finishes it off, complementing the inviting look and flavor of your hotpot.
Side Dishes
This meat pie is rich and hearty, so lighter sides keep things balanced. Think steamed greens like broccoli, a simple side salad, or even honeyed carrots. With every bite, you’ll be reminded why this 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes meal shines as a centerpiece.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking individual pies in ramekins for a dinner party, or pile the filling into a rustic cast iron skillet for a family-style showstopper. Top each mini-pot with an artful swirl of overlapping potatoes and let everyone marvel at their own 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes creation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer the cooled pie into an airtight container, making sure the potato topping doesn’t get too mashed. Kept in the refrigerator, your 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes pie will stay delicious for two to three days.
Freezing
Want to freeze? Go right ahead! Assemble your hotpot in a freezer-safe dish, but stop before baking. Wrap well, label, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge, then bake until piping hot and the potatoes have crisped up once more.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat portions in a hot oven (about 180°C/350°F) until the top is re-crisped and the filling is bubbling. Microwaving works in a pinch, but baking ensures you regain that iconic crisp finish from your 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes dish.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even chicken offers a lighter twist, but the steps remain the same. Just keep an eye on seasoning, as turkey needs a little extra love with herbs and spices.
What’s the best way to slice potatoes thinly?
A sharp mandoline is perfect, but a patient hand and a good knife do the job too. Thinner slices crisp up faster and give that delectable golden finish associated with 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes pies.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the beef mince for your favorite meat-free alternative or make it a hearty lentil-based pie. Use veggie stock and ditch the marmite, or keep it for that umami boost.
Should I peel the potatoes?
Peeled potatoes give a classic, soft-but-crisp finish on top, but leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients. It’s totally your call and both ways are delicious for your 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes hotpot.
Is it gluten free?
This recipe is naturally gluten free as long as your stock and marmite (if used) are certified gluten free. Always check your labels to be sure!
Final Thoughts
I can never get enough of this Crispy Potato Topped Meat Pie – it’s comforting, hearty, and all about togetherness around the table. Warmth, joy, and the unbeatable crispness of those potatoes make the 0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes one of my most cherished recipes. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a staple in your own kitchen!
Print0 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 hour 25 minutes Recipe
This Crispy Potato Topped Meat Pie, also known as Minced Beef Hotpot, is the ultimate family comfort food. It features savory extra lean minced beef simmered with hearty vegetables in a rich gravy, then topped with thin, golden potato slices for a mouthwatering, crisp finish. Perfect for cozy dinners and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
For the Meat Layer
- 500g (17.5oz) extra lean beef mince
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups (480ml) beef or vegetable stock
- 1 heaped tsp marmite (optional)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Dash of balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping
- 1kg (2.25lb) potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
- Low calorie cooking spray
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
To Finish
- 3/4 cup (120g) frozen peas
- Extra salt and black pepper for sprinkling
Instructions
- Brown the Meat & Vegetables: In a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat, brown the extra lean beef mince with the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the beef is well browned, breaking up the mince as it cooks.
- Add Liquids & Simmer: Stir in the tomato paste, beef or vegetable stock, marmite (if using), and a dash of balsamic vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes to let the gravy thicken slightly. Taste and season the gravy with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Preheat the Oven: While the mixture simmers, preheat your oven to 200°C/180°C fan/400°F (gas mark 6).
- Assemble the Pie: Transfer the meat mixture to an ovenproof dish. Add the frozen peas and gently mix them through. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes on top, overlapping them slightly in concentric circles to completely cover the meat mixture.
- Bake: Spray the top of the potatoes lightly with low calorie cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for around 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are crisp and golden brown on top.
- Finish & Serve: Once baked, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley (if desired) and a final pinch of salt and black pepper. Serve hot with your choice of steamed vegetables on the side.
Notes
- If not using marmite, you can substitute a little soy sauce or simply omit for a milder flavor.
- For extra crispy potatoes, use a mandolin for even slicing and pat the slices dry before layering.
- This dish can be made ahead. Assemble, cool, and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
- For a vegetarian version, simply swap the beef mince for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable stock.
- Serve with simple steamed green vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
