Easy Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie Recipe

The Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie is a heartwarming dish, perfect for any meal that calls for comfort and satisfaction. This savory pie combines tender leeks and creamy potatoes encased in a flaky pastry crust. Ideal for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or as a substantial vegetarian option, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe serves 6-8 people and can be prepared in about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Follow along as I guide you through each step to create this delightful pie, complete with personal tips and insights to ensure your cooking success.

What is Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie?

Jamie Oliver’s Leek and Potato Pie is a rustic, savory pie filled with a creamy mixture of leeks and potatoes, seasoned with herbs and encased in a buttery pastry shell. It’s a traditional British comfort food, reimagined by Jamie Oliver to bring simple, wholesome ingredients to life.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken and Mushroom Pie
• Jamie Oliver Chicken Mushroom Risotto
• Mary Berry Cheese Leek And Potato Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Wholesome Ingredients: Enjoy the natural flavors of leeks and potatoes, enhanced with subtle herbs and spices.
• Comfort Food: Perfect for a cozy night in, this pie brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or a hearty side—it pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie

For the Potato Mash:

• Potatoes: 800 grams of starchy potatoes (like Russets or Maris Piper), peeled and cut into even chunks. Starchy potatoes are preferred as they mash well and create a fluffy texture.
• Butter: 50 grams, unsalted. This will be divided; some for sautéing leeks and the rest for the mash to add richness and flavor.
• Milk: Approximately 100 ml, used to adjust the consistency of the mash to creamy and smooth.

For the Leek Mixture:

• Leeks: 3 large leeks, trimmed, cleaned, and thinly sliced. Only the white and pale green parts are used as they are tender and less bitter than the green parts.
• Butter: Used from the portion allocated above, for sautéing the leeks until they are soft and aromatic.
• Flour: 2 tablespoons, to thicken the leek mixture. Plain all-purpose flour works best for creating a smooth roux.
• Milk: 300 ml, to create a creamy sauce when combined with the flour and leek mixture.
• Mustard: 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a subtle sharpness that complements the creamy leeks and potatoes.
• Cheese: 100 grams of mature Cheddar cheese, grated. Half is mixed into the leek sauce for richness, and half is used for topping the pie to achieve a bubbly, golden crust.
• Seasonings:
  • Salt: To taste, usually about 1 teaspoon, but adjust based on dietary needs and preference.
  • Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste.
  • Thyme: 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, or a small handful of fresh leaves, stripped from stems, providing a subtle herby background.

For Assembling and Baking:

• Additional Butter: For greasing the baking dish, ensure the pie does not stick and has a lovely golden finish.
• Additional Cheese: Remaining half of the grated Cheddar, for topping the pie before baking.

Useful Equipment

• 9-inch Pie Dish
• Large Skillet
• Saucepan
• Rolling Pin
• Pastry Brush
• Knife

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie

Step 1: Preparing the Base

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Begin by boiling the potatoes until they’re tender. While they’re cooking, sauté the leeks in butter over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant. This is where the magic starts – the leeks will release their sweet, oniony aroma, setting the stage for our pie.

Step 2: Making the Filling

Once the leeks are done, sprinkle them with flour and stir to coat. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Now, add the mustard, and half of the cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. The mustard will give our pie a subtle heat, while the cheese adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie

Grease a baking dish with butter. Drain the potatoes and mash them with the remaining butter until smooth. Spread a layer of mash at the bottom of the dish, followed by the leek mixture, and then another layer of mash. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.

Step 4: The Final Touch

Bake the pie for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is beautifully bronzed and bubbly. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving – this allows the flavors to meld together and the pie to set, making it easier to slice.

Step 5: Serving Suggestions

This pie is a showstopper on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, serve it with a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.

What Do I Serve With Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie?

• Garden Salad: A simple salad with fresh greens and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the pie.
• Steamed Vegetables: Brighten your plate with steamed broccoli or green beans.
• Cranberry Sauce: For a touch of sweetness, serve with cranberry sauce or a fruity chutney.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Roast carrots, parsnips, and beets for a hearty and colorful side dish.
• Mashed Peas: A side of buttery mashed peas adds a fresh, light contrast to the savory pie.
• Apple Sauce: Serve with apple sauce for a slightly sweet, tangy flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the pie.
• Gravy: A jug of rich vegetarian or meat-based gravy goes well with this pie, perfect for drizzling over each slice.

Expert Tips to Make Perfect Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie

• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Make sure to cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, preventing the pastry from becoming soggy. This helps to keep the crust crisp and golden.
• Pre-Cook Vegetables: Sautéing leeks and boiling potatoes before baking enhances their flavor and texture in the pie. This step is crucial for ensuring that every bite is packed with taste.
• Chill the Pastry: For a flakier crust, keep the pastry dough chilled until ready to use. Cold dough handles better and results in a more delicious crust.
• Season Well: Season each layer of your pie adequately to build depth of flavor. Don’t forget to season the potatoes while boiling as well as the leek mixture.
• Use Quality Butter: The type of butter can really affect the flavor of your crust. Opt for a high-quality butter for a richer taste and better texture.
• Thicken Your Filling: If you find your filling is too liquidy, mix a little flour into your leeks as they cook to create a roux before adding the liquid components.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie

• Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated cheddar or Gruyere cheese over the leek and potato mixture before topping with the pastry. This will add a delicious gooeyness to each slice.
• Include Protein: Introduce diced ham, cooked bacon, or chunks of chicken to the filling for added protein. This makes the pie a more substantial meal.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream and butter substitutes, and replace the egg wash with a dairy-free milk wash. Ensure that the pastry is also vegan if you are catering to dietary restrictions.
• Add Greens: Stir in some spinach or kale to the filling for an extra boost of nutrients and color.
• Spice It Up: Give the pie a little heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper mixed into the filling.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pastry dough and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free if catering to those with sensitivities.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie Leftovers?

• Refrigerate: Cool the pie completely before covering it or transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap the pie well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie Leftovers?

• Oven Reheating: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. Heat for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: For a quick option, microwave slices of the pie on high for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically to ensure even heating.

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