Grandmother'S Carolina Meat Pie
A hearty Southern meat pie featuring leftover meats, vegetables, and a savory tomato-based sauce, baked with a crisp crust—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cube the leftover meats and brown them in a skillet.
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Pour in water and stir in ketchup, salt, and pepper.
- Add diced carrots and cook for about 30 minutes.
- Stir in diced potatoes and a bit of cornstarch to thicken the mixture.
- Cook until all vegetables are tender and a thick sauce forms.
- Line a baking dish with a thin crust of dough.
- Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into the crust.
- Cover with a top crust and bake until the crust is golden and done.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. If you don’t have leftover meats, cooked chicken or even a combination of beans can work as substitutes. For added richness, a splash of Worcestershire sauce can be stirred in with the ketchup. Be sure to taste for seasoning as you go—salt can vary greatly between different meats.
Serving Suggestions
This meat pie is best served hot, ideally with a side of steamed greens or a fresh salad for balance. It pairs beautifully with Bernadine'S Okra Dressing for a Southern-inspired meal. A dollop of hot sauce can also add a nice kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the crust may not stay crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother'S Carolina Meat Pie contains roughly 1529 calories, with 1g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 157g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1223mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, allowing you to use any combination of leftover meats such as pork, beef, or even ham. Just ensure the meats are already cooked, as the pie relies on these for flavor.
How do I ensure my crust comes out flaky?
For a flaky crust, handle the dough as little as possible and keep it cold before baking. You can also brush it with an egg wash before baking for a golden finish. If you're using store-bought dough, chill it before rolling to help maintain its texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and vegetable mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the pie just before baking to ensure a fresh, flaky crust. This makes it a great option for entertaining or meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).