Mom’s Two-Crust Potato Pie: A Heartwarming Comfort Food Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a homemade pie, especially when it’s filled with simple, wholesome ingredients and evokes cherished memories. My mom’s two-crust potato pie is exactly that – a dish that embodies warmth, love, and the flavors of home. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition passed down through generations, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

This potato pie is not your average side dish; it’s a hearty, satisfying meal in itself. The flaky, golden crust encases a creamy, savory filling of thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, a potluck gathering, or simply a way to bring a smile to your family’s faces.

## The Secret Ingredient: Love (and a Few Helpful Tips)

While the recipe itself is straightforward, there are a few key techniques that elevate this potato pie from good to extraordinary. First and foremost, the quality of your ingredients matters. Use good-quality potatoes, fresh onions, and real butter for the best flavor. Secondly, don’t rush the process. Allow the potatoes to cook through completely, and be patient with the crust. Finally, remember that a little love goes a long way. This pie is best made with care and attention, knowing that it will be enjoyed by those you cherish.

## Ingredients You’ll Need:

**For the Crust:**

* 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* ½ cup ice water

**For the Filling:**

* 6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
* 1 large onion, thinly sliced
* ½ cup butter, melted
* 1 ½ cups milk
* ¼ cup all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* ½ teaspoon black pepper
* ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

## Equipment You’ll Need:

* 9-inch pie plate
* Large mixing bowl
* Small mixing bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Rolling pin
* Pastry blender or food processor (optional)
* Baking sheet (optional, for catching drips)

## Step-by-Step Instructions:

**Part 1: Making the Pie Crust**

The crust is the foundation of any good pie, and this recipe produces a flaky, tender crust that perfectly complements the savory potato filling. You can use a store-bought crust if you’re short on time, but I highly recommend making it from scratch for the best flavor and texture.

1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the crust.
2. **Cut in the Butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be in small pieces, about the size of peas. If you’re using a food processor, pulse the butter and flour together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to over-process, as this will make the crust tough.
3. **Add Ice Water:** Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. The goal is to add just enough water to bring the dough together without making it too wet. Mix until the dough just comes together into a shaggy mass. Be careful not to overmix, as this will develop the gluten and make the crust tough.
4. **Divide and Chill:** Divide the dough in half and flatten each half into a disc. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This allows the gluten to relax, making the crust easier to roll out.

**Why is cold butter and ice water important?** Cold ingredients are crucial for creating a flaky crust. The cold butter creates pockets of steam when the pie bakes, which separates the layers of dough and results in a flaky texture. Ice water helps to keep the butter cold and prevents the gluten from developing too much.

**Part 2: Preparing the Potato Filling**

While the crust is chilling, you can prepare the potato filling. This is a simple process, but it’s important to cook the potatoes until they’re tender and the sauce is creamy.

1. **Prepare the Potatoes and Onions:** Peel and thinly slice the potatoes and onions. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices, or simply slice them by hand. The thinner the slices, the faster they will cook.
2. **Melt the Butter:** In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. **Layer Potatoes and Onions:** Arrange a layer of potato slices in the bottom of the skillet, followed by a layer of onion slices. Repeat the layers until all the potatoes and onions are used. Make sure the layers are evenly distributed.
4. **Cook the Vegetables:** Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

**How to prevent the potatoes from sticking?** Stir frequently and ensure there’s enough butter or liquid in the pan to prevent sticking. If the potatoes start to stick, add a tablespoon or two of water or milk to the pan.

**Part 3: Making the Cream Sauce**

The creamy sauce is what binds the potato filling together and adds richness and flavor. This is a simple white sauce that’s thickened with flour.

1. **Whisk Flour and Milk:** In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. This prevents lumps from forming in the sauce.
2. **Add to Vegetables:** Pour the milk mixture over the cooked potatoes and onions. Stir well to combine.
3. **Season the Filling:** Add the salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to the filling. Stir well to combine.
4. **Simmer and Thicken:** Bring the filling to a simmer over medium heat. Continue to simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened and the potatoes are very tender, about 5-10 minutes.
5. **Add Parsley (Optional):** Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, if using.

**Why is it important to stir frequently?** Stirring prevents the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. It also ensures that the sauce thickens evenly.

**Part 4: Assembling and Baking the Pie**

Now comes the fun part: assembling and baking the pie! This is where all your hard work comes together to create a beautiful and delicious dish.

1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Roll Out the Bottom Crust:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the discs of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to your 9-inch pie plate. Gently press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate. Trim any excess dough around the edges.
3. **Add the Filling:** Pour the potato filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
4. **Roll Out the Top Crust:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the second disc of dough into a 12-inch circle.
5. **Cover the Filling:** Carefully place the top crust over the filling. Trim any excess dough around the edges.
6. **Seal the Crust:** Crimp the edges of the crust together to seal the pie. You can use a fork to press the edges together, or use your fingers to create a decorative crimp.
7. **Cut Vents:** Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking. This prevents the crust from puffing up and cracking.
8. **Bake the Pie:** Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
9. **Cool and Serve:** Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set up slightly and prevents it from being too runny.

**Tips for a Perfect Pie Crust:**

* **Keep Ingredients Cold:** Use cold butter and ice water to prevent the gluten from developing too much, resulting in a tender crust.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the dough will make the crust tough. Mix just until the dough comes together.
* **Chill the Dough:** Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
* **Roll Out Evenly:** Roll out the dough to an even thickness to ensure that it bakes evenly.
* **Crimp the Edges:** Crimp the edges of the crust to seal the pie and prevent the filling from leaking out.
* **Cut Vents:** Cut vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.

## Variations and Adaptations:

* **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere cheese over the potato filling before adding the top crust for a cheesy twist.
* **Add Bacon:** Cook crumbled bacon and add it to the potato filling for a smoky flavor.
* **Add Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage, to add depth of flavor to the filling.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version of this pie.
* **Make it Vegetarian/Vegan:** Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives to make a vegetarian or vegan version of this pie. You can also omit the butter altogether and use olive oil instead.

## Serving Suggestions:

* Serve warm as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
* Serve as a side dish alongside roasted meat or poultry.
* Serve at potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday meals.
* Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave.

## Storage Instructions:

* Store leftover potato pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
* You can also freeze the pie for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate):

* Calories: Varies depending on ingredients and serving size.
* Fat: Varies depending on ingredients and serving size.
* Carbohydrates: Varies depending on ingredients and serving size.
* Protein: Varies depending on ingredients and serving size.

**Disclaimer:** Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

## Conclusion:

Mom’s two-crust potato pie is more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished tradition that brings comfort and joy to those who share it. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and simple ingredients, this pie is a true testament to the power of home cooking. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a heartwarming dish that will be enjoyed by everyone.

This recipe is easily customizable to fit your dietary needs and preferences. Feel free to experiment with different variations and adaptations to create your own unique version of this classic potato pie.

Enjoy!