This comforting and hearty dish is the perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy mashed potatoes, and sweet, tender leeks. Inspired by classic British comfort food, this pie is a one-dish wonder that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for a dinner party. The herby sausages pair beautifully with the caramelized leeks, all nestled beneath a golden crust of buttery mashed potatoes. Serve it with a side of steamed greens or a crisp salad for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 1 lb (450g) good-quality sausages (pork, chicken, or vegetarian)
- 2 medium leeks, trimmed and sliced into thin rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the mash topping:
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 tbsp butter
- ⅓ cup (80ml) milk or cream
- ½ cup (50g) grated cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausages and set them aside.
- In the same pan, add the sliced leeks and cook gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Sprinkle the flour over the leeks and stir to coat evenly.
- Gradually add the stock, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Stir in the mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Return the sausages to the pan, slicing them into chunks if desired. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Prepare the mash:
- While the filling is simmering, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot.
- Add the butter and milk (or cream) to the potatoes, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the grated cheese if using.
- Assemble and bake:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the sausage and leek mixture, fluffing the surface with a fork for a rustic look.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite vegetables or a crisp salad.
Tip: For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle a little more cheese on top before baking.
