A rich and comforting Irish potato pie, this savory dish features a flaky, buttery pastry filled with layers of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy Irish cheddar. The combination of simple, hearty ingredients creates a warm and satisfying meal, perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner. Whether served as a main course or a side, this pie is a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of Ireland.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Irish Comfort Food – A traditional dish highlighting classic Irish ingredients.
- Rich and Creamy Filling – A combination of heavy cream, cheese, and potatoes for a luscious texture.
- Golden, Flaky Pastry – Buttery crust that perfectly complements the hearty filling.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for family dinners, brunch, or special celebrations.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Pastry:
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- Ice-cold water
For the Filling:
- Medium potatoes (thinly sliced)
- Heavy cream
- Whole milk
- Irish cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- Green onions (chopped)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Dried thyme
- Egg (for egg wash)
Directions
Prepare the Pastry:
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch tart or pie pan.
- Roll out the chilled dough and press it into the pan, trimming any excess.
- Prick the bottom with a fork and blind bake for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the crust, sprinkle with half of the cheese and bacon.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese.
- Pour the cream mixture evenly over the top and sprinkle with green onions.
Bake:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil, brush the crust with egg wash, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
Serve:
- Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegetarian Option – Omit bacon and add sautéed leeks or mushrooms.
- Extra Cheesy – Mix in some Gruyère or Parmesan for more depth of flavor.
- Herb-Infused – Add fresh rosemary or parsley for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Gluten-Free Crust – Use a gluten-free flour blend for the pastry.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the fully baked and cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual slices for 30 seconds.
FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for this pie?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and create a creamy texture.
Can I use store-bought pastry?
Yes, a pre-made shortcrust pastry can be used if you prefer a quicker option.
Do I need to cook the potatoes before layering?
No, the thinly sliced potatoes will cook perfectly in the oven with the cream mixture.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pie, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready. You can also bake it ahead and reheat before serving.
Is Irish cheddar necessary?
Irish cheddar adds a rich, tangy flavor, but you can substitute with sharp white cheddar or Gruyère.
Can I add onions to the filling?
Yes, sautéed onions or leeks add great depth of flavor to the pie.
What should I serve with this pie?
It pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Whole milk provides the best texture, but you can substitute half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative.
How do I keep my crust from becoming soggy?
Blind baking the crust helps prevent sogginess, as does ensuring the potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly.
Can I make this pie without eggs?
Yes, the egg is only for the crust wash, so you can skip it or use milk instead.
Conclusion
Traditional Irish Potato Pie is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together flaky pastry, creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and rich Irish cheddar. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it is a warm and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Try this classic recipe and enjoy a taste of Ireland in your own kitchen!
