When you’re after something hearty, cheesy, and utterly comforting, Jamie Oliver Cheese And Potato Pie is the ultimate go-to. It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and surprisingly flexible. The crispy cheese topping is always the first bit to disappear at our dinner table! I gave it a go on a rainy Sunday, and honestly, it’s the kind of cozy meal that makes you glad to stay in. (inspired by Jamie Oliver)
Ingredients Needed
For the Mash:
- 1.5 kg Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes, peeled
- 1 large knob unsalted butter
- 100 ml semi-skimmed milk
- 1 whole nutmeg, for grating
- 150 g Cheddar cheese
- Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper
For the Beans:
- 2 x 400 g tins baked beans
Optional for Enhanced Beans:
- 1 large onion, peeled
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 red peppers, deseeded
- 1–2 fresh red chillies
- Olive oil
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves picked
- 3 large ripe tomatoes
How To Make Jamie Oliver Cheese And Potato Pie
Preheat the Oven:
Start by heating your oven to 220°C/425°F/gas 7. Get it nice and hot so the pie develops that gorgeous golden top.
Prep the Enhanced Beans (Optional):
If you’re going the extra mile, finely slice the onion, garlic, peppers, and chilli. Add a splash of olive oil to a pan over medium heat, then toss in the veg and thyme. Cook until softened—about 8 minutes—then stir in chopped tomatoes. Let it all simmer until thick and jammy, then stir in your baked beans. Simmer for five more minutes and season to taste.
Layer the Beans:
Whether enhanced or straight from the tin, pour the beans into a 20cm x 30cm baking tray and spread them out evenly.
Cook the Potatoes:
Chop your potatoes (quarters for large ones, halves for small) and boil in salted water until tender—about 10–15 minutes. Drain well and let them steam dry briefly.
Make Cheesy Mash:
Return the potatoes to the pan, then mash them with butter and most of the milk until smooth. Grate in some nutmeg and stir through one-third of the Cheddar. Season well—it’s worth tasting here.
Assemble the Pie:
Dollop your mash over the beans and spread it out evenly with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake It Off:
Pop it in the oven for 15–20 minutes. You’re looking for bubbling edges and a golden, cheesy crown. Serve hot with salad or slaw.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is one I return to whenever we need some real comfort food. It’s a huge hit with both kids and adults, and I love how you can sneak in extra veg without anyone minding. It’s affordable, easy to make, and tastes like a warm hug. Definitely a keeper!
Recipe Tips
- Starchy Spuds: Maris Piper or King Edward give you the fluffiest mash.
- Cheese Control: Finely grate your cheese so it melts perfectly.
- Seasoning Layers: Taste and season the mash and beans separately.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some corn, spinach, or leftover veg to bulk it out.
- Broil for Gold: If the cheese isn’t golden, broil it for 2–3 minutes at the end.
How To Store This Jamie Oliver Cheese And Potato Pie
At Room Temperature:
Leave it out for up to 2 hours, then refrigerate.
In the Fridge:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions as needed.
In the Freezer:
Freeze in portions or as a whole pie for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
- Oven: 175°C/350°F for 20 minutes
- Microwave: Medium power for 2–3 minutes per slice
- Stovetop: Covered skillet on medium heat until hot
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 476
- Carbs: 71.7g
- Protein: 19.7g
- Fat: 14.3g
- Sugar: 16.3g
- Fibre: 9g
- Sodium: 780mg
Let’s Answer a Few Questions!
Can I Use A Different Type Of Potato For This Recipe?
Totally! Russet potatoes work great too—they mash up beautifully.
What Type Of Beans Work Best?
Classic baked beans in tomato sauce are perfect, but spicy ones add a nice twist!
Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?
Yes! Assemble it a day before and bake when ready. Add 5–10 extra minutes if cold.
How Do I Thicken Watery Beans?
Simmer a bit longer or stir in a spoon of tomato paste for richness and body.
What If My Cheese Doesn’t Brown?
Switch on the broiler for a couple of minutes—just keep an eye on it!
Try More Recipes:
Jamie Oliver Cheese And Potato Pie
Course: DinnerCuisine: British6
servings15
minutes30
minutes476
kcalA comforting, cheesy mash-topped bake with hearty beans—perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
2 x 400 g tins of baked beans
1.5 kg Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes, peeled
1 knob unsalted butter
100 ml semi-skimmed milk
1 whole nutmeg
150 g Cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper
- Optional:
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 red peppers
1–2 red chillies
Olive oil
2 thyme sprigs
3 ripe tomatoes
Directions
- Preheat oven to 220°C/425°F/gas 7.
- If enhancing beans: sauté chopped onion, garlic, peppers, chilli, and thyme in olive oil. Add tomatoes and cook till jammy, then add beans and simmer 5 mins.
- Spread bean mixture (or plain beans) in a 20×30 cm tray.
- Boil potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with butter, most of the milk, nutmeg, one-third of cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Spread mash over beans. Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake 15–20 mins until golden and bubbling. Serve hot.