Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie Recipe: A Family Favorite

Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie is not just any dish; it’s a family favourite. It brings warmth and happiness to any meal. The pie has rich, buttery pastry filled with caramelised onions, tangy cheddar, and a touch of cream. It’s a taste of comforting British flavours loved by all ages.

Preparing and cooking this dish takes about two hours. It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With a golden crust and inviting flavours, it feeds around six people. Try making this delightful Cheese and Onion Pie and enjoy a piece of Mary Berry’s baking magic.

Introduction to Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie

Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie is a classic of British cooking. Its simple ingredients make a big impact, beloved in many homes. It’s comfort food that melds sweet onions with tasty cheese. The Mary Berry Pie is more than just delicious. It brings back warm memories for many.

This pie’s crust is flaky and crispy, perfect for a 25cm dish. Making it requires timing, like chilling the dough and cooling the filling. Bake it at 220°C for the cheese to melt and the crust to turn golden.

Sharing this pie isn’t just about eating. It’s about enjoying a moment rich with taste and memories. It’s best of British cooking. It’s great warm or cool, filling tummies and making memories.

Why This Pie is a Family Favourite

Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie is a favourite in many homes. It’s perfect for cold months when you want something filling. The mix of cheddar cheese and caramelised onions in a flaky pastry is loved by many.

Comforting Nature of the Dish

This pie has a rich and satisfying filling. Every bite is a mix of flavour and a crunchy pastry texture. On cold nights, it brings families together, adding warmth and joy to the table. It’s what you call real comfort food, enjoyed by both kids and adults.

Perfect for Any Occasion

It’s a versatile dish for any event. Be it a relaxed dinner at home or a festive party, it works well as a main or side dish. Its simplicity fits perfectly with busy family life, making it a popular choice.

Vegetarian-Friendly Delight

This vegetarian pie is a hit for those preferring meat-free options. It’s full of flavour and very satisfying. For a great cooking adventure, check out Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie recipe.

Ingredients for Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie

Finding the right ingredients is key to making a great cheese and onion pie. Every part adds its own taste and texture. This makes the dish a family favourite.

Essential Ingredients and Their Roles

Here are the ingredients you need for Mary Berry’s cheese and onion pie:

• Plain flour (200g): It’s used to make the pastry flaky.
• Unsalted butter (100g): It makes the pastry rich.
• Eggs (3 large): They bind the filling and make it creamy.
• Onions (2 medium, finely sliced): They add sweetness and depth when caramelised.
• Double cream (200ml): Makes the filling rich and smooth.
• Milk (100ml): Makes the cream mixture lighter.
• Pinch of salt: Improves the seasoning of pastry and filling.
• Cheddar cheese (150g, grated): Adds a sharp, melted taste.

To make the dough, you need 2-3 tablespoons of cold water. Cooking the onions until they’re soft and golden lays the foundation for the pie’s taste.

Recommended Cheese Varieties for Optimal Flavour

The type of cheese you pick changes the pie’s taste. Strong cheddar is a top pick for its rich flavour. You can also try:

• Gruyère: Has a nutty, slightly sweet taste.
• Red Leicester: Creamy with a splash of colour.
• Parmesan (90g): Adds richness and depth.

Mixing these cheeses can enhance the filling. It adds layers of flavour and a creamy texture, perfect with onions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Pie

Making a Cheese and Onion Pie requires focus at every step. This guide makes it easier, allowing anyone to make a homemade pie. Follow these clear baking instructions for success.

Making the Shortcrust Pastry

Start with the shortcrust pastry. Rub chilled butter into flour until it looks like breadcrumbs. Add cold water bit by bit to make a dough. Then, roll it out and chill for 30 minutes. This makes the pastry flaky, giving you a great base.

Preparing the Filling

Now, let’s do the filling. Slice onions and cook them in butter until soft and sweet. Mix in cheese, eggs, and cream for richness. You could also add Worcestershire sauce and paprika for more taste. Include about 4 to 5 cups of chopped veggies like courgettes and mushrooms for a hearty mix.

Assembling and Baking the Pie

Put the pie together by lining a 9″ dish with pastry. Add the filling and cover it with pastry. Blind-bake the bottom for 20 minutes to avoid a soggy pie. After, bake it at 180 degrees Celsius until golden. Making this pie is rewarding and perfect for any time. For more great recipes, check out Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie or the famous Mary Berry’s Apple Cake.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To make Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie even better, try these tips. A crisp green salad with a tangy dressing works well with it. It brings out the pie’s creaminess. Or, try steamed veggies for a fresh contrast.

Another great choice is to add tangy tomato chutney on the side. It’s a tasty contrast to the cheesy inside of the pie.

Accompaniments to Enhance the Meal

For a fuller meal, go for roasted veggies like carrots and parsnips. They add a cozy feel. Creamy mashed potatoes also make the pie even more indulgent. These options not only match the pie perfectly but also boost the meal’s overall taste.

Side Dishes that Complement the Pie

There are lots of side dishes that go great with the pie. You could pick a Greek salad or a Rocket and Pear Salad. Both are favourites among users. For something different, try crispy Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes or Mediterranean Potato Salad.

Whichever you choose, these sides will make your meal even better. They balance the flavours and make everything more enjoyable.

FAQ

What makes Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie a family favourite?

Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie is favoured for its comforting taste, easy steps, and rich flavours. It’s great for family meals and get-togethers.

How long does it take to prepare and cook the pie?

It takes about 2 hours in total to get Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie ready. This time ensures a perfect bake and a creamy filling.

Can this pie be made vegetarian?

Absolutely, Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie is a terrific vegetarian choice. It offers rich flavours and comfort for those preferring meat-free dishes.

What are the key ingredients in this recipe?

The main ingredients are plain flour, unsalted butter, eggs, caramelised onions, and cheeses like cheddar and parmesan. They combine for a tasty filling.

How do I make the perfect shortcrust pastry?

To create perfect shortcrust pastry, mix chilled butter into flour until breadcrumb-like. Then add cold water, roll the dough, and chill it. This method ensures a great texture for your pie.

What sides can I serve with Mary Berry’s Cheese and Onion Pie?

Pair the pie with a fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. These sides offer a tasty contrast.

Is there a recommended cheese variety for this pie?

Opt for strong cheddar for its richness, though Gruyère or Red Leicester also work well. They add depth and creaminess to the filling.

Why is this pie a quintessential comfort food?

This pie is classic comfort food, thanks to sweet caramelised onions and melted cheese wrapped in crispy pastry. It brings nostalgia and warmth.