This Cheese and Potato Pie is a warm hug in a dish! With creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese wrapped in a golden crust, it’s comfort food at its best.
Making this pie is a breeze! I love how it fills my kitchen with delicious smells. Plus, you can serve it with a side salad for a tasty meal that makes everyone happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best mash. If you need a quick alternative, you can use frozen mashed potatoes, although the texture will vary.
Cheddar Cheese: Mature cheddar gives a great flavor, but feel free to try other cheeses like Gruyère or a sharp American cheese for a different taste. Vegan cheese is also an option for dairy-free diets.
Onion and Garlic: These add wonderful flavor. If you’re short on time, you could use onion powder and garlic powder as substitutes, but fresh is always best!
Shortcrust Pastry: If you prefer homemade pastry, you can make it with flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. Store-bought is perfectly fine and saves time.
What’s the Best Way to Mash Potatoes for This Pie?
Mashing potatoes may seem simple, but there are a few tips to get the perfect texture. First, ensure your potatoes are fully cooked and soft. After draining, you can either use a potato masher for a rustic feel or a ricer for creamy mash.
- Heat your milk or cream before adding—this helps keep the mashed potatoes warm and fluffy.
- Don’t over-mix; just combine until smooth, or you’ll end up with gummy potatoes.
- Always season as you go. Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking!
How to Make Jamie Oliver’s Cheese and Potato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 pounds (900g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 oz (115g) mature cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 oz (115g) mozzarella cheese, grated or torn
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk or cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Crust:
- 1 sheet ready-made shortcrust pastry or enough to cover your pie dish
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme), chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting pie takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and approximately 30-40 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let it cool for a few minutes before serving. In total, you’ll have a delicious homemade pie ready in around 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly and turns out golden and crispy.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You can check by piercing them with a fork; they should feel soft.
3. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
While your potatoes are boiling, heat the olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking gently until they’re softened and fragrant. This takes about 5 minutes; just be careful not to let them brown!
4. Mash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well. Put them back into the pot and mash them with the milk or cream until they are smooth and creamy. This is the base of your filling!
5. Combine the Filling:
Add the cooked onion and garlic mixture to the mashed potatoes. Next, stir in the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding fresh herbs, mix those in too!
6. Prepare the Pie Dish:
Roll out your shortcrust pastry on a floured surface until it fits your pie dish. Line the dish with the pastry, making sure to save some for the top. Press it into the edges and create a slight overhang.
7. Add the Filling:
Spoon the cheesy potato mixture into the lined pie dish. Spread it evenly to smooth out the surface. Make sure it’s filled to the top!
8. Top with Pastry:
Cover the pie with the reserved pastry, sealing the edges by pressing them together. Cut a small slit in the top to allow steam to escape while baking.
9. Egg Wash for Shine:
Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg. This will give your pie a lovely golden finish as it bakes.
10. Bake the Pie:
Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake it for 30-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, and it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some steamed greens. Enjoy your delicious homemade cheese and potato pie!
FAQ About Jamie Oliver’s Cheese and Potato Pie
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mature cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or even a creamy goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
How Can I Make This Pie Vegetarian?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian since it doesn’t include meat. Just ensure that your cheese is suitable (look for vegetarian rennet) if you want to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I Prepare This Pie in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’ve assembled it with the pastry, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pie can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for the best texture. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
