Cheesy Potato Dough Pie with Creamy Hearts of Palm Filling
If you love savory bakes that are creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, this cheesy potato dough pie is a recipe worth saving. Instead of a classic flour-only crust, this version uses mashed potatoes, cream, and cheese to create a soft, moist base that feels somewhere between a traditional pie and a comforting casserole.
The filling combines tomato sauce, sliced hearts of palm, and plenty of mozzarella, finished with Calabrese sausage, fresh tomato slices, and chopped green onions. The result is a golden, bubbling dish that looks impressive yet is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Potato Dough
- 1 egg
- 150 ml milk
- 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 tablespoon margarine
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup grated cheese
- 200 g cream
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
For the Filling
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup canned hearts of palm, sliced
- 1½ cups grated mozzarella cheese
For the Topping
- Calabrese sausage, thinly sliced
- 1 fresh tomato, sliced
- Green onions, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook and Mash the Potatoes
Boil the potatoes until fork tender. Drain them well, peel if needed, and mash while still warm. Let them cool slightly before adding to the dough mixture.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, margarine, and salt until smooth. Stir in the mashed potatoes, grated cheese, and cream. Mix thoroughly.
Add the flour and baking powder, folding gently until you have a smooth, spreadable dough. The texture should be soft and creamy rather than firm like bread dough.
3. Assemble the Base
Grease a baking dish with oil or margarine. Spread half of the potato dough evenly across the bottom.
4. Add the Filling
Layer the tomato sauce over the dough. Arrange the sliced hearts of palm on top, then sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
5. Finish the Pie
Cover the filling with the remaining potato dough, spreading it carefully to seal the layers. Decorate the surface with slices of Calabrese sausage and tomato.
6. Bake
Place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crisp at the edges.
7. Garnish and Serve
Allow the pie to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top and serve warm.
Approximate Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Calcium: 180 mg
- Vitamin C: 12 mg
- Potassium: 400 mg
Why This Recipe Works
The mashed potatoes give the dough a tender, fluffy texture while adding natural richness. Cream and cheese enhance the softness and create a melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Hearts of palm introduce a mild tang and subtle crunch that balance the creaminess of the cheese. The sausage provides smoky, savory depth, while fresh tomato and green onions brighten the overall flavor.
It is comfort food that feels indulgent but not overly heavy.
Inspiration Behind the Dish
This recipe takes cues from traditional European savory pies, where hearty ingredients like potatoes are often used to enrich doughs and casseroles. The inclusion of hearts of palm adds a touch inspired by Latin American and Mediterranean cuisines, where this ingredient is widely appreciated.
Blending creamy textures with bold toppings creates a modern twist on classic home-style baking.
Storage and Reheating
Once cooled completely, store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For longer storage, slice into portions and freeze for up to two months.
To reheat, warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Individual slices can be microwaved for about two minutes. Avoid repeated reheating, as this may dry out the dough.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian option: Omit the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Extra protein: Include diced ham, cooked chicken, or bacon in the filling.
- Cheese blend: Combine mozzarella with gouda, provolone, or parmesan for added complexity.
- Spicy touch: Add chili flakes or paprika for mild heat.
- Herb boost: Mix fresh basil, parsley, or oregano into the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pie with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for contrast. It also works well alongside tomato soup or roasted vegetables.
For brunch, serve with scrambled eggs or sautéed greens. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors nicely.
Final Thoughts
This cheesy potato dough pie with creamy hearts of palm filling brings together softness, richness, and layered flavor in every bite. The combination of fluffy potato dough, melted cheese, and savory toppings makes it suitable for dinner, lunch, or even a relaxed weekend brunch.
It is versatile, comforting, and likely to become a regular favorite once you try it.
