Grandma’s Savory Beef and Cheese Pie Recipe – A Hearty Comfort Food

Are you looking for the perfect savory pie to warm your heart and fill your table? Grandma’s special beef and cheese pie recipe is a family treasure, passed down through generations, filled with rich, flavorful ingredients. With this recipe, you can enjoy a slice of nostalgia, and it’s also incredibly easy to prepare at home.

In this post, we’ll walk through the ingredients and steps to create this pie masterpiece, along with tips and variations to suit your personal taste. Let’s dive into making the perfect hearty pie!

Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Pie:

• Pie Crust: You can either make your own homemade pie crust or use a pre-made one. A flaky, buttery crust is key to holding all the delicious layers of beef, cheese, and vegetables.

• Ground Beef: 500 grams of lean ground beef, or your choice of protein (ground turkey or chicken works well too).

• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, divided (you can use a mix of cheeses if you prefer, like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor).

• Vegetables: 1 small onion (chopped), 1 red bell pepper (diced), and 2 cloves of garlic (minced). You can add or substitute other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

• Eggs: 3 large eggs, beaten, to bind everything together and give the filling a rich, custardy texture.

• Milk or Cream: 1 cup of milk or heavy cream for a richer flavor.

• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, paprika, and fresh thyme (optional).

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

   • If you’re making a homemade pie crust, begin by mixing flour, salt, and cold butter. Use a fork or pastry cutter to blend the butter into the flour until it resembles crumbs. Add cold water gradually until the dough forms a ball.
   • Roll the dough out into a circle and place it into your pie dish, trimming the edges to fit.

2. Cook the Beef and Vegetables:

   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat and set aside.
   • In the same skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. Add the cooked beef back to the skillet, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine the flavors.

3. Assemble the Pie Filling:

   • In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and half of the shredded cheese. This will help to create a smooth and creamy filling.
   • Layer the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Pour the egg mixture over the top, allowing it to settle into the cracks.
   • Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the pie for a golden, cheesy crust.

4. Bake the Pie:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake the pie for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. You can test this by inserting a knife into the center – if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.
   • Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Selection: While cheddar is a classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses. Swiss cheese gives a nutty flavor, while pepper jack adds a bit of spice.

• Vegetarian Option: If you’d prefer a vegetarian version, swap the beef for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or lentils. The same method applies – just make sure your veggies are well-cooked to avoid excess moisture in the pie.

• Crustless Option: For a lighter, crustless version of this recipe, simply skip the pie crust and pour the filling directly into a greased baking dish.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Cheese Pie:

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge.

• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, beefy goodness makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. Serve it for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the pie a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep.

Nutritional Benefits of the Pie:

• Protein-Packed: Ground beef is a great source of protein, which helps build and repair tissues in the body. Combined with eggs and cheese, this pie is a powerhouse of protein.

• Rich in Calcium: Thanks to the cheese, this dish is also a good source of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.

• Versatile Vegetables: Adding bell peppers, onions, and other veggies brings essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber into the dish.

Pairing Suggestions:

This pie is rich and hearty, so it pairs well with light and fresh sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie.

• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for an easy and nutritious side.

• Garlic Bread: For a truly comforting meal, serve a slice of garlic bread on the side to soak up the extra cheesy goodness.