Mary Berry’s cheese and onion pie is a classic British delight. It’s perfect for those who love traditional recipes. The pie has rich shortcrust pastry, filled with creamy cheddar and sweet caramelised onions. When baked, it has a crisp, flaky outside and a cheesy centre.
This dish has only 450 kcal per serving and is balanced. With 15g of protein, 30g of carbs, and 3g of fibre, it’s nutritious. It’s great as a main course or a side dish at gatherings. Each bite brings warmth and memories of family dinners.
The recipe is also good for meal prep. It can stay in the fridge for three days or be frozen for a month. Try making Mary Berry’s cheese and onion pie. You’ll bring the taste of a British classic into your home.
Cheese and onion pie is a beloved part of British food. It brings together delicious flavours and textures. Its flaky pastry and creamy filling of onions and cheese make a satisfying meal.
What Makes This Dish Special?
Cheese and onion pie is more than tasty. Its buttery pastry and savoury filling make a versatile dish. It’s perfect for family meals, picnics, or social events. The cooking process is fun, and it ends up being a heartwarming dish. A 25cm pie dish is ideal, serving up to nine people.
The Nostalgic Value of a Classic British Recipe
Nostalgia in food is important in Britain. Cheese and onion pie brings back memories of meals with family. It’s a comforting dish that feels like home. Preparing it with family builds connections and memorable moments.
To make this favourite, follow Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie. It offers warmth and nostalgia. With less than two hours of prep and good freezer life, it’s handy for any time.
Aspect
Details
Preparation Time
1.5 hours
Cooking Time
1 hour – 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings
9 people
Calories (per serving)
597
Pastry Layers
12 layers
Oven Temperature
220°C/200°C fan/Gas 7
Ingredients for Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie
Making a great cheese and onion pie needs careful choice of ingredients. This dish blends tasty flavours and a delightful texture. It’s important to know the right ingredients for a perfect balance.
Essential Ingredients for the Pastry
The base of a good pie is its pastry. The ingredients for the pastry are key for a crispy and flaky shell. For Mary Berry’s pie, you need the following:
125g of butter
125g of lard
350g of plain flour
These components work together for a pastry that makes a layered crust. This crust improves the pie’s texture.
Filling Ingredients: Cheese and Onions
The filling is the main feature of the pie. Cheese and onions pair up for a strong taste and creamy feel. The filling needs these key items:
60g of butter
2 small leeks
1 onion
450g of potatoes
600ml of milk
50g of plain flour
1 tbsp of Dijon mustard
1 tbsp of thyme
50g each of mature Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses
This mix not only boosts flavour but also gives a cosy feeling, perfect for a filling meal.
Optional Variations for Added Flavour
The classic recipe is great as it is, but you can change it up. Adding new ingredients can improve the pie. Look at these ideas:
Adding spices such as cayenne pepper or mustard powder for a kick
Trying different cheeses like Gruyère or Red Leicester for new tastes
Adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms for a twist
These additions bring creativity, keeping the cheese and onion pie a favourite for all.
Ingredient
Quantity
Butter
125g (pastry), 60g (filling)
Lard
125g
Plain Flour
350g (pastry), 50g (filling)
Leeks
2 small
Onion
1
Potatoes
450g
Milk
600ml
Dijon Mustard
1 tbsp
Thyme
1 tbsp
Mature Cheddar Cheese
50g
Parmesan Cheese
50g
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheese and Onion Pie Mary Berry
Making cheese and onion pie is a delightful culinary adventure. It combines the rich flavors of caramelised onions with creamy cheeses. Here’s a guide that shows you the key steps, from making pastry to baking.
Preparing the Pastry
Start by preparing the pastry. Mix 125g (4½oz) butter and 125g (4½oz) lard with 350g (12oz) of plain flour. Rub these together until they look like breadcrumbs. Then, add cold water bit by bit until dough forms. Chill it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. After that, roll it out to line a 25cm (10in) round pie dish.
Caramelising the Onions
Now for the filling. Melt 60g (2½oz) of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and onion. Cook them slowly until the onions are soft and golden, bringing out their sweetness. This step is key for a great taste.
Assembling and Baking the Pie
With the pastry and filling ready, begin assembling the pie. Roll out the pastry for your dish, then blind bake it at 220°C/200°C fan/Gas 7 for 10 minutes. In the meantime, mix the caramelised onions with 450g (1lb) of diced potatoes, 600ml (1 pint) of milk, 50g (2oz) of flour, a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, some chopped thyme, and 50g each of Cheddar and Parmesan. Put this mix into your pre-baked pastry shell. Bake for 40-45 minutes until it’s golden and bubbling. It’ll serve 6-8 people and be very comforting.
For a great dessert after your pie, look at recipes from Mary Berry. Try desserts like the Lemon and Lime Cheesecake. Enjoy making and eating your dishes!
Serving Suggestions for Comforting Meals
Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie goes great with thoughtful sides. Matching flavours and textures makes the meal better. Think about options that suit the pie’s richness.
Complementary Sides to Enjoy with the Pie
Different side dishes make your meal even better. Here are some perfect choices:
Crisp Green Salad: Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this provides a fresh contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, or zucchini balance the pie’s flavours well.
Steamed Greens: Spinach or green beans bring nutrition and colour to your plate.
Wine Pairings for a Cozy Dinner
Pairing drinks with your meal makes it special. Choosing the right wine adds delight. Here are some wines to try:
Type of Wine
Tasting Notes
Ideal Pairing
Chardonnay
Crisp and citrusy
Pairs well with creamy dishes
Pinot Noir
Fruity with soft tannins
Matches earthy flavours well
Rosé
Bright and fruity
Good for various dishes
Picking the right sides and drinks with Cheese and Onion Pie makes the meal better. Whether you choose fresh greens or explore wines, your dinner will impress.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie is the pinnacle of comfort food. It perfectly combines flaky pastry with rich cheese and sweet caramelised onions. This dish does more than fill you up. It takes you back to fond memories, giving you a cosy feeling of nostalgia. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a simple dinner at home.
This pie is a favourite because it’s easy to make and tastes amazing. You can change the recipe to suit your taste or needs, like using local cheeses or vegan substitutes. Whether served hot or eaten as leftovers, it shows what home cooking is all about. Trying this recipe is a must for anyone who loves great food.
This pie has come a long way from its working-class roots to become a beloved dish for everyone. No matter where you’re from, a slice of this pie feels like a hug. It’s a testament to classic British cuisine and its lasting appeal.
FAQ
What is Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie made from?
Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie uses rich shortcrust pastry. It is filled with creamy cheddar cheese and sweet caramelised onions. It also includes double cream and eggs to bind the filling. You can add leeks or different cheeses for more flavour.
Is the Cheese and Onion Pie suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Cheese and Onion Pie is great for vegetarians. It’s a comforting meal without meat.
How long does it take to bake the pie?
Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 200°C (180°C fan). It takes about 25-30 minutes. Wait until it is golden brown and bubbling.
Can I make the pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the pie beforehand. Keep it in the fridge before baking. Or bake it and reheat it before serving. This makes for an easy meal.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Cheese and Onion Pie?
Serve it with a crisp green salad and vinaigrette. You could also have roasted vegetables like carrots or parsnips. Steamed greens such as spinach or green beans work well too. These sides add freshness to the rich pie.
What wines pair well with Cheese and Onion Pie?
A light white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a fruity red wine are great choices. They complement the flavours of the pie, enhancing the dining experience.
