How To Make Passover Potato Pie: A Simple And Flavorful Recipe

Introduction:

Passover is one of the most significant Jewish holidays, celebrated with rich traditions, rituals, and, of course, delicious food. During this time, Jewish families gather for the Seder, a special meal that marks the beginning of the holiday. While the holiday is known for its symbolic foods—such as matzah (unleavened bread) and charoset (a sweet paste)—there is also a wide variety of savory dishes that make up the festive meal. One such dish that has become a beloved part of many Passover tables is Passover potato pie.

Potatoes are a staple ingredient during Passover, as they are naturally kosher for the holiday. Since leavened bread is forbidden during Passover, families get creative with their meals, using potatoes as a versatile base for everything from mashed potatoes to kugels to pies. Passover potato pie, with its comforting texture and savory flavors, offers an innovative twist on traditional potato dishes.

This dish is typically made with a simple, yet flavorful combination of grated or mashed potatoes, eggs, and seasonings. What makes it even more appealing is its versatility—potato pie can be served as a side dish or even as a main course for those looking for a heartier option. Whether you’re preparing it for the first time or looking for a new recipe to impress your guests, Passover potato pie is an excellent choice for a kosher for Passover meal that is both satisfying and easy to make.

Additionally, the pie is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great centerpiece for your Seder table. Its golden crust and tender filling are sure to impress your guests while adding to the festive ambiance of the holiday meal. As we explore this simple and flavorful recipe, you’ll see just how easy it is to make, ensuring that you can enjoy this classic dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Ingredients :

Golden-baked Passover potato pie topped with fresh herbs

Making the perfect Passover potato pie begins with choosing the right ingredients. The simplicity of the dish means you don’t need a long list of items, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that comforting, flavorful filling and crisp, golden crust. Below, we’ll go over the key ingredients you’ll need to make a traditional, kosher for Passover potato pie, along with some helpful tips for selecting the best options.

Potatoes: The Star Ingredient

The heart of any Passover potato pie is, of course, the potatoes. Starchy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, work best for creating a creamy, smooth filling. These varieties hold up well when cooked and mashed, creating a hearty texture that’s perfect for a pie. Yukon Gold potatoes are slightly buttery in flavor, which adds richness to the dish, making them a popular choice.

For a slightly different texture, you can also experiment with red potatoes for a firmer filling or even sweet potatoes for a variation that adds a touch of sweetness and color to your pie.

Eggs: Binding and Structure

Eggs are essential in a Passover potato pie as they provide structure and act as a binder to hold everything together. The eggs help set the filling while baking, ensuring that your pie holds its shape and doesn’t fall apart. Typically, you’ll need about 2-3 large eggs, depending on the size of your pie.

For those following a dairy-free or vegan diet, it’s possible to use egg alternatives like flax eggs or aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) to achieve a similar binding effect.

Kosher-for-Passover Flour or Matzah Meal

Since leavened bread is forbidden during Passover, using kosher-for-Passover flour or matzah meal is essential. Matzah meal, made from ground matzah, is commonly used to thicken the filling and give the pie structure. Some recipes may also call for matzah cake meal for a finer texture.

If you don’t have matzah meal on hand, it’s possible to substitute it with potato flour for a gluten-free option that still complies with Passover restrictions. However, make sure to check that the flour is certified kosher for Passover if you’re preparing the dish for a Seder meal.

Seasonings and Herbs: Adding Flavor

Seasoning is what takes a simple dish like potato pie and elevates it into something truly special. Classic kosher for Passover seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper are essential for a balanced flavor profile. You can also incorporate fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill to enhance the aroma and flavor of your pie.

For those looking to give the pie a little extra depth, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or paprika, which pair wonderfully with potatoes. Chopped onions sautéed in olive oil or caramelized onions are a fantastic addition, adding both sweetness and richness.

Butter or Oil: For Richness and a Crispy Crust

If you’re making a dairy-based Passover potato pie, butter is the go-to fat for achieving a rich, golden crust. For a dairy-free option, olive oil or coconut oil can be used to get a crispy, savory crust while keeping the pie kosher for those avoiding dairy. The fat also adds moisture to the filling, ensuring it’s not too dry.

Optional Add-Ins: Customizing Your Pie

While the ingredients listed above form the base of a traditional Passover potato pie, feel free to get creative with add-ins to customize the recipe to your taste. Some popular additions include:

Cheese (for those who enjoy dairy): A little shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese can add creaminess and a savory depth of flavor.
Vegetables: Consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or leeks for added texture and flavor.
Meat: If you want a heartier pie, ground beef, chicken, or turkey can be incorporated into the filling, making it a more substantial main course.

Making It Kosher for Passover

Be sure to check that all your ingredients are certified kosher for Passover, as certain items, like processed or packaged goods, may contain ingredients that are not permitted during the holiday. Look for the Kosher for Passover symbol on packaging to ensure your ingredients meet the required standards.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Passover Potato Pie:

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of creating your delicious Passover potato pie. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, so you can easily make it even if you’re new to Passover cooking. Follow these simple instructions to create a comforting, flavorful pie that will be a hit at your Seder meal or holiday dinner.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

To begin, start by washing and peeling your potatoes. For this recipe, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are great options, but any starchy potato will work well. Once peeled, cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly.

Cooking the potatoes:

Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water for seasoning.
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
Once the potatoes are soft, drain them well and return them to the pot. Allow them to sit for a minute or two to allow excess moisture to evaporate, which will help achieve a smoother pie filling.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

Now that your potatoes are cooked and drained, it’s time to mash them into a creamy filling. Use a potato masher, hand mixer, or food processor for this step. Mash until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps for a velvety texture.

Optional:

For an extra creamy filling, you can mix in a bit of butter or olive oil at this point, depending on whether you’re using a dairy or dairy-free version.
If you like a richer flavor, you can also add a splash of chicken broth or vegetable broth for added depth.

Step 3: Mix in the Eggs and Seasonings

Once your potatoes are mashed and smooth, it’s time to add the binding ingredients and seasonings to flavor the pie. In a separate bowl, whisk your eggs until well-beaten. Add the eggs to the mashed potatoes along with your matzah meal or kosher-for-Passover flour, depending on your preference.

Add your seasonings:

Stir in salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs such as garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or paprika, which complement the flavor of the potatoes beautifully.
If you’re using sautéed onions or any optional vegetables (like spinach or mushrooms), fold them into the mixture now.

Step 4: Prepare the Pie Dish

Before you fill your pie with the mashed potato mixture, you’ll need to prepare your pie dish. Grease your baking dish or pie pan with a light coating of olive oil or butter to prevent the pie from sticking and ensure a golden, crisp crust.

Optional:

If you prefer a flaky crust, you can line the bottom of the pie dish with a kosher-for-Passover pie crust, although many recipes for Passover potato pie skip the crust altogether for a more rustic, simple dish.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Now that your pie dish is prepared and the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble your Passover potato pie.

Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared pie dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
For a beautiful presentation, smooth the top of the pie and use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the surface, which will also help the top crisp up as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Potato Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is ready, place the pie dish in the center of the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pie is set in the center.

Tip:

To ensure an even bake, consider rotating the pie halfway through the cooking time. This will help the crust become uniformly crispy and ensure the filling cooks evenly.
If you notice that the top is browning too quickly, you can cover the pie with aluminum foil and bake it for the remaining time.

Step 7: Let It Cool and Serve

Once the pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will allow the filling to set and make it easier to slice.

Serve your Passover potato pie as a side dish at your Seder table or as a main course for a comforting, filling meal. Garnish with a little fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfecting Your Passover Potato Pie

While making a Passover potato pie is relatively simple, a few tips and tricks can take it from good to great. These suggestions will help you fine-tune your recipe to ensure that your pie turns out perfectly every time, whether you’re making it for the first time or looking to elevate your usual recipe.

1. Get the Right Texture with Your Potatoes

The texture of the potatoes is key to achieving the perfect Passover potato pie. You want a creamy, smooth filling, but without it being overly watery. Here’s how to perfect it:

Don’t overcook the potatoes: While you want them tender, overcooking potatoes can make them too watery. To avoid this, keep an eye on the potatoes as they cook and check them with a fork. They should be soft, but not falling apart.
Let them sit after draining: After draining your potatoes, let them sit for a minute or two to let any excess moisture evaporate before mashing them. This will prevent your pie filling from becoming too runny.
Use a potato ricer or food mill: If you want an ultra-smooth texture, consider using a potato ricer or food mill instead of a traditional potato masher. This method will give you a lump-free filling and a velvety texture that melts in your mouth.

2. Experiment with Seasonings and Add-ins

One of the great things about Passover potato pie is its versatility. While the classic version is delicious on its own, you can take it to the next level by experimenting with different seasonings and ingredients.

Fresh herbs: While dried herbs like thyme and rosemary are commonly used, fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can add a burst of freshness to the filling. You can sprinkle them on top of the pie before baking or mix them directly into the mashed potatoes.
Cheese lovers: If you’re not keeping the dish dairy-free, adding cheese can make the filling even more delicious. Shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or even cheddar can give your pie a rich, creamy texture. For a twist, you could add a bit of ricotta for creaminess.
Onions and garlic: Sautéed onions or garlic can be folded into the mashed potatoes for added depth and flavor. Caramelized onions, in particular, can provide a sweet, savory note that enhances the pie’s overall taste.
Vegetable variations: You can also incorporate other vegetables into the filling, such as sautéed spinach, leeks, or mushrooms. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add extra nutrients.

3. Achieve the Perfect Golden, Crispy Crust

A crispy crust is one of the hallmarks of a great potato pie. Whether you use a traditional kosher-for-Passover pie crust or a simple top crust made from mashed potatoes, these tips will help you get the best texture:

Brush the top with fat: Before baking, brush the top of the pie with a bit of olive oil or melted butter. This will help the surface crisp up and turn golden brown while baking.
Preheat the baking dish: Preheating your pie dish in the oven before adding the filling can help the bottom crust become crispy. This is especially helpful if you’re using a pie crust or if you want to prevent the filling from becoming soggy.
Add texture with a fork: After smoothing the top of the pie, use a fork to create a light pattern. This will help the pie bake more evenly, and it will give the top a slightly crispy texture. The fork design also adds a beautiful aesthetic touch.

4. Customize for Dietary Preferences

One of the wonderful things about Passover potato pie is how easy it is to customize for different dietary needs, whether you’re looking to make it dairy-free, gluten-free, or even vegan.

Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free butter or olive oil instead of regular butter, and swap in a non-dairy milk (like almond or coconut milk) for added creaminess. You can also use dairy-free cheese if you want to include that rich, cheesy flavor.
Gluten-free version: Substitute matzah meal or potato flour for regular flour or breadcrumbs. These options will help the pie hold together while keeping it gluten-free. Make sure that any store-bought products like matzah meal are labeled kosher for Passover and gluten-free if necessary.
Vegan version: For a vegan version, swap the eggs with a plant-based egg substitute, such as flax eggs (made from ground flaxseed and water) or aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). You can also use nutritional yeast in place of dairy cheese to achieve a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

5. Prevent a Watery Filling

A common problem with potato pies can be excess moisture in the filling, which can lead to a soggy crust. Here are some strategies to prevent this:

Squeeze out moisture from vegetables: If you’re adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini, be sure to sauté them and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing them into the potato filling.
Avoid overmixing: Overmixing the potato filling can cause it to become too liquid. Once your ingredients are incorporated, stop mixing. Just enough mixing is needed to combine everything, so don’t overdo it.
Let the pie rest before serving: After baking, let the pie cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the filling set, making it easier to slice and reducing any residual moisture.

6. Make Ahead and Reheat

If you’re preparing Passover potato pie for a busy holiday meal, consider making it ahead of time. The pie can be assembled and stored in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together, making the pie even more flavorful.

To reheat, cover the pie with foil and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to crisp up the top again, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking

Serving Ideas for Passover Potato Pie

Passover potato pie is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, making it an excellent choice for different meal settings throughout the holiday. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at your Seder table or as the star of a family dinner, there are numerous ways to present and pair this dish to enhance the dining experience. Here are some creative serving ideas to elevate your Passover potato pie:

1. Pair with a Fresh Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad can balance out the richness of Passover potato pie. Consider pairing it with a light, fresh salad that offers contrasting flavors and textures.

Israeli Salad: A traditional Israeli salad, made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and olive oil, is an ideal accompaniment. The tanginess of fresh lemon juice or pomegranate seeds in the dressing can help cut through the pie’s creaminess.
Mixed Greens with Lemon Vinaigrette: A simple mix of arugula, spinach, and baby kale, topped with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, complements the richness of the pie while adding a bit of bitterness and freshness.
Apple and Walnut Salad: For a bit of sweetness and crunch, an apple and walnut salad dressed in a honey-mustard vinaigrette works beautifully. The natural sweetness of the apples balances the savory flavor of the pie.

2. Serve as a Main Dish with Protein

Although people often serve Passover potato pie as a side, it can also take center stage as a hearty main dish, especially when you pair it with a protein.

Roast Chicken: A classic pairing, roast chicken seasoned with garlic, lemon, and herbs is a perfect match for potato pie. The crispy skin and juicy meat complement the creamy filling of the pie. For an extra touch, serve the chicken with a side of gravy made from the pan drippings.
Grilled Lamb: Lamb chops or a rack of lamb grilled to perfection pairs wonderfully with the comforting texture of potato pie. The richness of the lamb complements the flavors in the pie, making for a satisfying main course.
Salmon: For a lighter, fish-based option, consider serving roasted salmon or grilled salmon fillets alongside the pie. The mild, flaky fish provides a lovely contrast to the dense, creamy potatoes. A squeeze of lemon over the fish enhances the flavors.

3. Serve with a Traditional Passover Charoset

For a truly traditional Passover experience, serve your potato pie alongside charoset, a sweet mixture made of apples, walnuts, wine, and cinnamon. The sweetness of charoset offers a delightful contrast to the savory potato pie, and it adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

4. Enjoy as a Savory Breakfast or Brunch Dish

Passover potato pie isn’t just for dinner—this dish also makes a great breakfast or brunch option. Its comforting, hearty nature is perfect for the first meal of the day. Consider serving it as:

A stand-alone dish: Serve slices of the pie with a simple side of fruit or a small bowl of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey for a balanced meal.
Accompanied by Eggs: Pair your potato pie with scrambled eggs, fried eggs, or even a soft-boiled egg for a protein-packed brunch. The richness of the eggs complements the potatoes, making for a filling and satisfying breakfast.
Side of Matzo: For a more traditional approach, serve the potato pie alongside some matzo or matzo crackers. The crunch of matzo can provide an interesting textural contrast to the soft pie.

5. Add a Side of Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables are an excellent side to serve with Passover potato pie, as their natural sweetness and crispiness provide a contrast to the creamy texture of the pie.

Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper, adds a savory-sweet contrast to the pie. The caramelization from roasting enhances the vegetables’ natural flavors.
Asparagus or Green Beans: Roasted asparagus or green beans add a pop of color and a fresh, grassy flavor that pairs nicely with the richness of the potato pie. Try tossing the vegetables with a little garlic and lemon for extra flavor.
Brussels Sprouts: If you enjoy a bit of bitterness to balance out the richness of the pie, roasted Brussels sprouts are a perfect choice. Their slightly crispy outer leaves and tender centers create a satisfying texture that complements the creamy pie filling.

6. Make It a Grab-and-Go Meal

For a more casual or buffet-style gathering, Passover potato pie can be served as an easy-to-eat, portable dish that guests can help themselves to. Serve it in individual slices or make mini individual pies that guests can pick up with their hands. This approach is great for casual family meals or brunches, as it makes serving easier and keeps cleanup to a minimum.

7. Pair with Kosher Wine

If you’re serving Passover potato pie during a festive occasion like the Seder or a family dinner, pairing the dish with wine is a great way to elevate the meal.

White Wine: A light, crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy and savory elements of the pie without overpowering it. If you prefer something on the sweeter side, a Moscato or Riesling can also pair well with the richness of the pie.
Red Wine: For those who prefer red wine, go for a lighter Pinot Noir or a medium-bodied Merlot. These wines won’t overwhelm the delicate flavors of the potatoes and herbs but will still provide a satisfying depth.

8. Leftovers: Great for Meal Prep

If you have leftover Passover potato pie, it’s just as delicious the next day! You can serve it:

Reheated: Simply reheat individual slices in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy.
Enjoy Passover potato pie cold or at room temperature, making it a perfect option for lunchboxes or a picnic the day after Passover dinner

Conclusion

Passover potato pie is a timeless dish that brings comfort, flavor, and tradition to your Passover celebrations. Whether you’re serving it as a savory side or making it the star of your meal, this dish offers endless opportunities for customization. From selecting the right potatoes and perfecting the texture to experimenting with seasonings and adding complementary sides, you can make this recipe your own. Plus, with its versatility, it’s just as perfect for a festive family dinner as it is for casual brunches or leftovers the next day.

By following these tips, you’ll not only create a delicious Passover potato pie, but you’ll also create a memorable dish that can become a cherished part of your holiday tradition. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking! With just a little effort, you’ll have a dish that’s both simple and flavorful, sure to impress family and friends alike.

Here’s an external link that could be relevant to your article on Passover potato pie:

The Spruce Eats – Passover Recipes

This site offers a variety of Passover recipes, including sides and mains, and provides helpful tips for holiday meal planning.