This cheese and potato pie is a warm and cozy dish that brings a smile to your face! Made with creamy potatoes and melted cheese, it’s perfect for any comfort food craving.
Who can resist the golden, crispy top? I love serving it with some veggies on the side to balance out all that yummy cheesy goodness. 🍽️ Super easy to whip up too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Maris Piper or Charlotte are key for the perfect texture. If you can’t find these, try Yukon Golds. They’re creamy and hold their shape well when baked.
Cheddar Cheese: Strong cheddar gives great flavor. If you’d like a milder taste, you can use medium cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like gouda or gruyère for something different!
Soft Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is my go-to. If you want a lighter option, use a low-fat cream cheese or cottage cheese, but remember it may change the texture a bit.
Fresh Thyme: This herb adds lovely flavor. Dried thyme can work in a pinch, but use less as it’s quite strong. If you want more variety, consider adding fresh chives or parsley.
How Do You Get the Perfect Mash for Your Pie?
The mashed potato base is crucial for a creamy texture. Here’s how to achieve it!
- Start with boiling potatoes until they’re tender—around 15-20 minutes is perfect. Don’t overcook or they’ll be watery!
- Drain the potatoes well, letting any steam escape, so they aren’t too moist.
- Add warm milk or cream and butter to the potatoes for a rich taste. Mash them until smooth, but don’t over-mix; a little texture is nice.
When combining with your cheese and seasonings, make sure to mix gently to keep that wonderful creamy consistency. Enjoy making that tasty pie!
Jamie Oliver Cheese and Potato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) waxy potatoes (e.g., Maris Piper or Charlotte)
- 250 g (9 oz) strong cheddar cheese, grated
- 150 g (5 oz) full-fat soft cheese (such as cream cheese)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 100 ml (about 3.5 fl oz) milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cheese and potato pie will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, making a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C (350°F) if you have a fan oven. Peel and chop your potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until they’re tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once ready, drain them well and mash with the butter and milk or cream until smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to season your mash with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for a delicious flavor!
2. Cooking the Onions and Garlic:
While the potatoes cook, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook gently for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are softened and translucent. This step is important as it adds lots of lovely flavor to your pie!
3. Combining the Ingredients:
Now, take the cooked onions and garlic and stir them into your mashed potatoes. Next, gently mix in the soft cheese and most of the grated cheddar cheese (make sure to save some cheddar for the topping). If you’re using fresh thyme, now’s the time to add it in! Give everything a good stir until combined.
4. Assembling the Pie:
Transfer the cheesy potato mixture into a buttered ovenproof dish. Flatten the surface with a spatula to make it nice and even. Then, sprinkle the reserved grated cheddar cheese evenly on top of your pie. Brush the top with the beaten egg to create a golden finish while it bakes.
5. Baking and Serving:
Put your pie in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This pie is best enjoyed warm, either as a hearty main dish or alongside a fresh green salad or steamed veggies.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and hearty potato pie—Jamie Oliver style!
FAQ for Jamie Oliver Cheese and Potato Pie
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While strong cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix and match cheeses such as gouda, gruyère, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that softer cheeses will change the overall texture of the pie.
Can I Prepare This Pie in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and transfer it to the dish, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to your bake time if you’re starting with a chilled pie.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add cooked veggies like spinach, leeks, or peas for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely and sauté them with the onions and garlic to enhance their flavors before mixing into the potato mixture.
