Name: Irish Potato Pie Recipe: Delight in a Creamy Twist!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Irish-American
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes (like Russets), peeled and cubed; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Irish Potato Pie Recipe: Delight in a Creamy Twist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Irish Potato Pie brings together the comforting taste of mashed potatoes and the richness of sharp cheddar cheese, creating a savory dish that’s both creamy and flavorful. The addition of sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh chives infuses the filling with extra depth and freshness, while the golden, bubbly cheese topping adds a wonderful texture. It’s an easy-to-make yet impressive dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner, a holiday meal, or even as a side for a larger spread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 large potatoes (like Russets), peeled and cubed
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the potatoes: In a large pot of salted water, boil the cubed potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and set them aside.
Mash the potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot and add the heavy cream, butter, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Set aside to cool slightly.
Sauté the onions and garlic: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Combine the filling: Stir the sautéed onions and garlic into the mashed potato mixture. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the chopped chives. Mix until everything is well combined.
Assemble the pie: Pour the potato mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Bake the pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Cool and slice: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Add Vegetables: To enhance the dish, you can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or leeks for extra flavor and nutrition.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter and plant-based cream to make this dish vegan. You can also swap the cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
Spicy Kick: For a spicy version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the mashed potatoes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, though the texture may not be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

Yes! While Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing, you can also use Yukon Gold or other waxy potatoes for a different texture and flavor.

2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.

3. How do I make the crust from scratch?

You can use your favorite homemade pie crust recipe, or use a pre-made store-bought crust to save time. For a flakier crust, consider blind-baking the crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling.

4. Can I freeze the Irish Potato Pie?

Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

5. How can I make the mashed potatoes fluffier?

To make the mashed potatoes fluffier, be sure not to over-mash them. Use a potato masher or hand mixer, but avoid using a food processor, which can make them gummy.

6. Can I add meat to this pie?

Yes! For added protein, consider adding sausage, or ground beef to the filling.

7. Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?

Yes, you can use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe. Just reheat them and mix with the other ingredients as directed.

8. What can I serve with Irish Potato Pie?

This pie pairs beautifully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even a hearty stew.

9. How do I know when the pie is fully baked?

The pie is ready when the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. You can also check the center by inserting a knife—if it comes out clean, the pie is done.

10. Can I use a mini pie crust for individual servings?

Absolutely! You can divide the mixture into individual mini pie crusts for single-serving pies. Just adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes for smaller portions.

Conclusion

Irish Potato Pie is a rich and comforting dish that will surely satisfy your cravings for something creamy and cheesy. With the perfect balance of smooth mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery crust, this pie is a delicious meal on its own or paired with a side salad. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that will please everyone at the table.