Cheesy Beef Potato Savory Pie

Introduction

This Cheesy Beef & Potato Savory Pie is the ultimate comfort food — rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and a golden cheese topping, all wrapped in a flaky crust, this dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy weekends. It combines the warmth of a casserole with the elegance of a baked pie, making it both rustic and impressive.

Brief History

Savory pies have long been a staple in European and American kitchens, especially in times when stretching ingredients was essential. Combining meat, potatoes, and cheese into a crust created a complete, nourishing meal. This modern version adds creamy textures and bold seasoning, inspired by classic shepherd’s pie and baked casseroles.

Ingredients

For the crust

  • 1 homemade or store-bought pie crust (deep dish)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)

For the beef layer

  • 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the potato layer

  • 3–4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • Salt to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the creamy sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream or cooking cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the cheese topping

  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese
  • Optional: chopped parsley or thyme for garnish

Preparation Method

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
  2. Lightly grease a deep pie dish and place the crust inside, pressing gently.

Cooking Instructions

Beef Layer

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and cook until soft.
  3. Add garlic and bell pepper, sauté briefly.
  4. Add ground beef, breaking it up until browned.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.
  6. Cook until moisture evaporates. Set aside.

Potato Layer

  1. Boil sliced potatoes for 5–7 minutes until just tender (not fully cooked).
  2. Drain and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Creamy Sauce

  1. Melt butter in a small saucepan.
  2. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute.
  3. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking until smooth.
  4. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until slightly thick.

Assembly

  1. Spread beef mixture evenly over the crust.
  2. Layer sliced potatoes on top.
  3. Pour creamy sauce evenly over potatoes.
  4. Sprinkle generously with cheddar and mozzarella.
  5. Fold crust edges slightly inward for a rustic look.

Baking

  • Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes
  • Top should be golden and bubbling
  • Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing

Nutritional Benefits

  • Protein-rich from beef and cheese
  • Energy-boosting carbohydrates from potatoes
  • Calcium from dairy
  • Iron & B vitamins from beef

Why People Love This Pie

  • Creamy, cheesy, and deeply comforting
  • Perfect balance of meat and potatoes
  • Great for leftovers — even better next day
  • Ideal for family meals or special occasions

Variations

  • Add mushrooms for extra depth
  • Replace beef with chicken or turkey
  • Add chili flakes for a spicy kick
  • Use sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef & Potato Savory Pie is a timeless, soul-warming dish that brings comfort and flavor together in every bite. Easy to prepare yet rich in taste, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite — one that’s requested again and again.

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