Main Dish Cheese Pie
A savory cheese pie with a crispy crust and gooey cheese filling, perfect for a quick lunch or snack, appealing to cheese lovers and casual diners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Butter a 9-inch pie pan.
- Blend milk, flour, salt, and egg using an electric mixer.
- Stir in half of the grated cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie pan.
- Bake until puffed and golden, about 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Continue to bake until the cheese has melted, about 4 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese. You can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste, or even almond flour for a gluten-free version. To enhance the dish, add herbs like chives or thyme to the mixture. Ensure that the pie pan is well-buttered to prevent sticking, and let it cool slightly before cutting for cleaner squares.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheese pie warm as a main dish or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a bowl of Chili-Cheese Dip for a casual gathering. This dish is also great for brunch or as a snack at any time of day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warm. This will help maintain the pie's texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Main Dish Cheese Pie contains roughly 453 calories, with 10g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 644mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will ensure even cooking and a fluffy texture.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese are recommended for their melting qualities and flavor. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for a different taste. Just remember to keep the total cheese amount the same to maintain the recipe's consistency.
How do I know when the cheese pie is done?
The cheese pie is done when it is puffed and golden on top, usually taking about 25 minutes of baking. A quick visual check is to see if the edges are set and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan. It should also feel firm to the touch.
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).