I remember the first time I tried a potato pie-it was during a cozy winter evening at a friend’s house. The comforting warmth of the dish, the richness of cheese melting into soft potatoes, and the crispy golden crust made it unforgettable. That night, I became obsessed with the idea of recreating it. So, I turned to Jamie Oliver’s recipe, one of his simplest yet most flavorful creations: Cheese and Potato Pie.
This pie is a celebration of comfort food in its purest form-simple, hearty, and packed with flavors. Over time, I’ve tried various tweaks, but Jamie’s version still stands out as a classic. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience.
Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Potato Pie Recipe
Jamie’s version of this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, it’s one of those recipes that’s both effortless and impressive. The beauty of Jamie’s pie lies in its simplicity.
His recipe combines three main components:
- Potatoes that are thinly sliced and cooked to perfection.
- Cheese that melts beautifully over the potatoes, binding the layers together.
- Crispy pastry that adds texture and a delightful crunch.
This dish has an almost universal appeal. It’s vegetarian, incredibly filling, and sure to please anyone who loves cheese (and really, who doesn’t?).
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this pie to life:
- Potatoes (around 1 kg) – They form the heart of the dish. You want a starchy variety like Russet or Maris Piper.
- Cheese (300g) – A mix of mature cheddar and something creamy like mozzarella creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Butter (50g) – For richness and to help with the layering process.
- Milk (250ml) – Adds a bit of creaminess, bringing everything together.
- Pastry (ready-made shortcrust or puff pastry) – This is where you can cheat and go with ready-made, which is fine for a quick and easy recipe.
- Fresh herbs (optional) – A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary elevates the flavor without overwhelming it.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Potato Pie
Making this pie is easier than it seems, and trust me, once you’ve got it down, you’ll be making it on repeat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Try to keep the slices uniform so they cook evenly.
- Boil the potatoes: Boil the sliced potatoes for around 5 minutes in salted water. They don’t need to be fully cooked-just softened a bit.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a separate pan, melt the butter. Add the milk and heat until warm. Stir in the grated cheese, allowing it to melt into a creamy sauce.
- Layer the pie: Start layering the partially cooked potatoes and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Add a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and herbs as you go.
- Top with pastry: Roll out the pastry and lay it over the potato and cheese layers, crimping the edges. Brush with a little butter or milk for a golden finish.
- Bake: Pop it into the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
- Potatoes: When you boil potatoes for this recipe, the starches in them help create a smooth texture when baked. The slight pre-cooking ensures they soften but don’t fall apart in the pie. The key is balancing the texture, ensuring they’re firm but tender.
- Cheese: The combination of cheddar and mozzarella works wonders. Cheddar provides a sharp, rich flavor, while mozzarella adds that deliciously gooey, stretchy quality. When combined in the sauce, they bond to the potatoes and create an indulgent, creamy bite with every forkful.
- Pastry: The fat in the pastry (usually butter) creates that beautiful flakiness. It traps air pockets as it cooks, making it crisp and light. This contrast of textures-the crispy crust with the soft potato and gooey cheese-is one of the dish’s most satisfying elements.
Expert Tips
- Don’t skimp on the cheese: Use the best-quality cheese you can afford. A good mature cheddar can make all the difference.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the pie a day ahead and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve. The flavors actually deepen overnight.
- Texture balance: If you like a bit of crunch, add a layer of breadcrumbs or even some crushed crackers on top before baking. It’ll create an extra crispy texture that contrasts with the softness of the potatoes.
- Herbs: While Jamie’s recipe doesn’t require herbs, fresh thyme or rosemary can add a lovely depth of flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Meat lovers: Add a layer of cooked bacon, sausage, or even a little shredded ham between the potatoes for extra flavor.
- Veggie boost: You can toss in some sautéed spinach, leeks, or mushrooms for added complexity. It’s a great way to sneak in more vegetables!
- Different cheeses: Try swapping the cheddar for a mix of Gruyère or a blue cheese for a unique twist. These cheeses melt beautifully and add different levels of sharpness and flavor.
- Pastry alternatives: You could use filo pastry for a lighter, crispier topping, or go gluten-free with a gluten-free pastry mix.
Final Words
Jamie’s Cheese and Potato Pie is more than just food-it’s a warm hug in a dish. There’s something magical about how the creamy cheese and tender potatoes are encased in flaky pastry. Whether you’re making it for a Sunday dinner or serving it as a comforting side dish, this pie brings a touch of nostalgia while still feeling fresh and modern.
FAQs
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Potato Pie Take To Cook?
It usually takes about 45 minutes to cook the pie after preparation.
Can I Use Different Types Of Cheese In Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Potato Pie?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like, but a sharp cheese like cheddar gives it a great flavor.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cheese And Potato Pie Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it and keep it in the fridge for a day before baking, or freeze it for later.