Hearty Cheesy Potato and Onion Pie with Homemade Gravy

Introduction:

Hearty Cheesy Potato and Onion Pie with Homemade Gravy is the ultimate comfort food. A rich, savory filling of creamy potatoes, sweet caramelized onions, and melted cheese is encased in a flaky, buttery crust. Served with a smooth, flavorful homemade gravy, this pie is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re craving something warm and cheesy or looking for a dish to impress guests, this pie ticks all the boxes!

Ingredients:

For the Potato and Onion Filling:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Homemade Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the sliced potatoes. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside.
3. Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and caramelized. Add the minced garlic in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and milk over medium heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan until the cheese is melted and smooth. Season with a little salt and pepper.
5. Assemble the Pie: In the prepared pie dish, layer the cooked potatoes, caramelized onions, and cheese sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top. If you have leftover cheese, sprinkle it on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
6. Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
7. Make the Gravy: While the pie is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the broth and soy sauce, cooking until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Slice the potato pie and serve with the homemade gravy poured over the top. Enjoy this hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish!

Tips:

• For a Crunchy Topping: Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or panko to the top of the pie before baking for a crispy golden crust.
• Make it Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken if you prefer a vegetarian version of this pie.
• Extra Cheese: You can mix in some Gruyère or mozzarella cheese for additional flavor and creaminess.

History of the Dish:

Potato pies have been a staple in many cultures for centuries, especially in European cuisines. This particular version, with its creamy cheese and caramelized onions, draws inspiration from classic comfort foods like the British Shepherd’s Pie, which uses potatoes as a base for savory fillings. The addition of homemade gravy is a nod to traditional British cooking, where gravy is often served with hearty meals to enhance the flavors and provide a smooth, savory accompaniment.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg

Conclusion:

Hearty Cheesy Potato and Onion Pie with Homemade Gravy is a comforting, filling dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy potatoes, sweet onions, and gooey cheese makes this pie irresistible. The homemade gravy adds the perfect finishing touch, elevating the flavors and ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a side dish, this pie will quickly become a favorite in your household!