The James Martin Cheese, Onion, and Potato Pie is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or as a satisfying lunch. With layers of creamy mashed potatoes, tangy cheese, and caramelized onions baked in a flaky pastry crust, this pie is a delicious twist on traditional comfort food. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
What is James Martin Cheese, Onion, and Potato Pie?
This pie is a rich, savory dish made with a creamy potato and cheese filling, enhanced with sweet, caramelized onions. Encased in a golden, buttery pastry, it’s a perfect vegetarian option or a delightful side dish for a main meal.
Other Popular Recipes
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Comfort food classic: Perfect for cozy evenings.
- Vegetarian-friendly: A hearty option for non-meat eaters.
- Customizable: Use your favorite cheeses and herbs.
- Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when needed.
- Crowd-pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients Needed to Make James Martin Cheese, Onion, and Potato Pie
For the Filling:
- Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury varieties like Maris Piper or Yukon Gold work best.
- Onions (2 large): Thinly sliced.
- Butter (50g): For cooking the onions and mashing the potatoes.
- Cheddar cheese (200g, grated): Provides a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Milk (100ml): To achieve creamy mashed potatoes.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
For the Pastry:
- Plain flour (250g): For the pastry base and top.
- Butter (125g, chilled): Cut into cubes for a flaky crust.
- Cold water (2–3 tablespoons): To bring the dough together.
- Egg (1, beaten): For brushing the pastry to create a golden finish.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling potatoes.
- Frying pan: To caramelize the onions.
- Mixing bowl: To make the pastry.
- Pie dish: For assembling the pie.
- Rolling pin: To roll out the pastry.
Instructions to Make James Martin Cheese, Onion, and Potato Pie
Step 1: Prepare the pastry
- In a mixing bowl, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Wrap the dough in cling film and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the potatoes
- Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks.
- Boil them in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Caramelize the onions
- Heat butter in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook for 10–12 minutes until golden and caramelized.
Step 4: Combine the filling
- Mix the mashed potatoes with the caramelized onions and grated cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble the pie
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roll out half of the pastry on a floured surface and line the pie dish.
- Spoon the potato, onion, and cheese mixture into the pastry shell.
- Roll out the remaining pastry and place it on top, sealing the edges. Trim any excess and crimp the edges with a fork.
Step 6: Bake the pie
- Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
Step 7: Serve
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
What Goes Well With James Martin Cheese, Onion, and Potato Pie
- Green salad: A fresh and light side.
- Steamed broccoli: Adds a healthy, vibrant touch.
- Roasted tomatoes: Complements the savory pie flavors.
- Pickled vegetables: Adds a tangy contrast.
- Chutney: Pairs well with the cheesy filling.
- Vegetable soup: A comforting combination.
- Crusty bread: Great for scooping up any leftovers.
Expert Tips for Making the Best James Martin Cheese, Onion, and Potato Pie
- Use sharp cheese: A mature cheddar or Gruyère adds more depth of flavor.
- Caramelize the onions slowly: Low and slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness.
- Chill the pastry: Ensures a flaky and tender crust.
- Avoid overfilling: Leave a small gap at the top to prevent spilling.
- Brush generously: The beaten egg wash creates a beautiful golden crust.
Easy Variations of James Martin Cheese, Onion, and Potato Pie
- Add herbs: Mix fresh thyme or parsley into the filling for extra flavor.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika.
- Different cheeses: Try a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, blue cheese, or Parmesan.
- Vegetable-packed: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or leeks.
- No pastry: Skip the crust and bake the filling as a casserole.
Best Practices to Store James Martin Cheese, Onion, and Potato Pie
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently: Warm in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes.
- Freeze for later: Wrap the pie in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
FAQs
Can I make cheese, onion, and potato pie without pastry?
Yes, you can skip the pastry and bake the filling in a greased dish as a casserole. Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs for a golden crust.
What is the best cheese to use for cheese, onion, and potato pie?
Mature cheddar is the best choice for its sharp flavor, but you can also use Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses to add depth and creaminess.
Can I prepare cheese, onion, and potato pie in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the pie in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
How do I keep the pastry crust from getting soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, blind-bake the pastry base for 10 minutes before adding the filling. You can also sprinkle a thin layer of grated cheese on the base before adding the potato mixture.
Final Words
The James Martin Cheese, Onion, and Potato Pie is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this pie is sure to delight with its creamy filling and golden, flaky crust. Ready to enjoy a slice of comfort? Try this recipe today!
More By British Baking Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Roast Vegetables
- Gordon Ramsay Baked Potatoes
- Jamie Oliver 3 Ingredient Bread
- Delia Smith Winter Coleslaw
James Martin Cheese Onion And Potato Pie
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
This pie is a rich, savory dish made with a creamy potato and cheese filling, enhanced with sweet, caramelized onions. Encased in a golden, buttery pastry, it’s a perfect vegetarian option or a delightful side dish for a main meal.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury varieties like Maris Piper or Yukon Gold work best.
- Onions (2 large): Thinly sliced.
- Butter (50g): For cooking the onions and mashing the potatoes.
- Cheddar cheese (200g, grated): Provides a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Milk (100ml): To achieve creamy mashed potatoes.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
For the Pastry:
- Plain flour (250g): For the pastry base and top.
- Butter (125g, chilled): Cut into cubes for a flaky crust.
- Cold water (2–3 tablespoons): To bring the dough together.
- Egg (1, beaten): For brushing the pastry to create a golden finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the pastry
- In a mixing bowl, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Wrap the dough in cling film and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the potatoes
- Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks.
- Boil them in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Caramelize the onions
- Heat butter in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook for 10–12 minutes until golden and caramelized.
Step 4: Combine the filling
- Mix the mashed potatoes with the caramelized onions and grated cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble the pie
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roll out half of the pastry on a floured surface and line the pie dish.
- Spoon the potato, onion, and cheese mixture into the pastry shell.
- Roll out the remaining pastry and place it on top, sealing the edges. Trim any excess and crimp the edges with a fork.
Step 6: Bake the pie
- Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
Step 7: Serve
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
