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Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man's Pie)

Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man's Pie)

A hearty, budget-friendly comfort food classic featuring a savory bean and vegetable filling topped with a cloud of fluffy, golden mashed potatoes.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Resting time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Savory Filling:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter {15 ml}
  • 1 large yellow onion diced (about 1 1/2 cups {225g})
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large carrot diced small (about 1 cup {130g})
  • 1 rib celery diced small (about 1/2 cup {65g})
  • 2 15 oz cans of beans, drained and rinsed (e.g., kidney & cannellini) {425g each}
  • 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes, with juices {425g}
  • 1 cup vegetable broth {240 ml}
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Potato Topping:

  • 2 pounds russet potatoes peeled and cut into chunks {900g}
  • 4 tablespoons 1/2 stick butter, softened {55g}
  • 1/2 cup milk warmed {120 ml}
  • Salt to taste

Optional Finish:

  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese {55g}
  • Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Potatoes:

  • Place peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water by 1 inch, add a big pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and let steam dry in the pot for a minute.

Prepare the Filling:

  • While potatoes cook, heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 8-10 minutes until softened.
  • Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in drained beans, diced tomatoes with juices, vegetable broth, thyme, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer.
  • Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until slightly thickened. Season well with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Make the Mashed Potatoes:

  • Mash the drained potatoes with a masher or ricer. Add the softened butter and mash until incorporated.
  • Gradually add the warm milk while mashing until smooth and fluffy. Season generously with salt.

Assemble and Bake:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the bean filling into a 9-inch pie dish or 9x9 baking dish.
  • Dollop mashed potatoes over the filling and spread gently to cover completely, creating peaks with a fork.
  • If using, sprinkle cheese over the top.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, until filling is bubbly and topping is golden brown.
  • Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Let the filling cool slightly before adding to the baking dish for easier assembly.
For a crisper top, broil for the final 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully in the oven or a skillet.
Keyword Hillbilly Pie