poor man’s pie recipe

The Best poor man’s pie recipe

I’ve been making poor man’s pie for my family for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for busy families on a budget. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they always get excited when they see the ingredients laid out on the counter – they know we’re in for a treat!

The first time I made poor man’s pie, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I’d never thought about using leftover mashed potatoes as the base of a casserole before, but it’s genius!

It adds such depth and richness to the dish, and it’s a great way to use up those leftover spuds that are always lurking in the fridge. I’ve experimented with different variations over the years, but the classic recipe remains my favorite.

There’s just something about the combination of the crispy top layer, the fluffy interior, and the savory filling that makes this dish so satisfying. My family can’t get enough of it – they even request it for special occasions like holidays and birthdays!

And let me tell you, it’s not just because of its convenience – poor man’s pie is also surprisingly healthy. By using leftover mashed potatoes as the base, we’re reducing food waste and saving ourselves some extra prep time in the process.

Poor Man’s Pie

4.7 from 709 votes

A simple and comforting pie made with a basic dough and a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup water
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling

1 cup tomato sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, finely chopped
1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, peas)
1 lb ground beef
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3Gradually add water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
4Knead the dough briefly until smooth.
5Roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch baking dish, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly.
Set aside.
6In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic and chopped onion over medium heat until softened and translucent.
7Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
8Drain excess fat.
9Stir in tomato sauce, mixed vegetables, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
10Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
11Pour the filling into the prepared dough.
12Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
13Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.
14This will ensure the filling is not too hot and the crust holds together when sliced.
15Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Oven
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Add your favorite vegetables to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

Poor man’s pie is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for guests. One of our favorite ways to serve it is reheated in individual portions with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

You can also customize it by adding different toppings or mix-ins to suit your tastes. For example, try adding some diced bell peppers or chopped fresh herbs to give it an extra boost of flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Poor Man’s Pie

What is poor man’s pie?

Poor man’s pie is a classic American dish made from leftover mashed potatoes, ground meat or vegetables, and topped with a crispy layer of breadcrumbs or crackers.

Is poor man’s pie healthy?

Yes, poor man’s pie is surprisingly healthy! By using leftover mashed potatoes as the base, we’re reducing food waste and saving ourselves some extra prep time in the process. Additionally, you can customize the filling with your choice of lean ground meat or vegetables to make it even healthier.

How long does poor man’s pie take to prepare?

Poor man’s pie is incredibly quick to prepare – you can have it on the table in under an hour! Simply mix together your ingredients, pour them into a baking dish, and top with some breadcrumbs or crackers.

Can I make poor man’s pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make poor man’s pie ahead of time – simply assemble all the ingredients except for the topping and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply top with your chosen topping and bake as usual.

Is poor man’s pie suitable for special diets?

Poor man’s pie can be adapted to suit various special diets – simply substitute out any allergens or dietary restrictions with alternative ingredients.

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