Passover is a time for family, traditions, and, of course, unforgettable food. While matzo takes center stage during this holiday, there’s another dish that deserves a spot on your table: passover potato pie. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for satisfying everyone, from picky eaters to your most food-loving relatives.
If you’ve never made a potato pie before, don’t worry—it’s easier than you might think. This dish combines tender potatoes with savory ingredients to create a pie that’s both comforting and festive. Whether you’re hosting a seder or just looking for a tasty way to celebrate, this recipe will bring a little extra joy to your holiday table.
So grab your apron, and let’s get into everything you need to know to make the ultimate passover potato pie. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a new tradition in your home.
Try this decadent sweet potato brûlée recipe for a unique and delicious dessert experience!
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What is Passover Potato Pie?
Passover potato pie is a dish that perfectly fits the holiday’s dietary restrictions while still feeling indulgent and satisfying. It’s essentially a layered potato casserole or pie, depending on how you bake and shape it. Instead of using any leavened ingredients or flour, it relies on potatoes as the star.
What makes Passover potato pie shine is its ability to adapt to different tastes and traditions. While the classic version is simple—just potatoes, onions, and a few seasonings—you can get creative by incorporating your favorite Passover-friendly ingredients. Some families add shredded carrots for a hint of sweetness or chopped spinach for a pop of color. Others sprinkle the top with crushed matzo or drizzle it with olive oil to create a golden, crispy crust.
This dish typically includes boiled or shredded potatoes layered with sautéed onions, herbs, and sometimes eggs to hold everything together. You can also customize it by adding matzo meal, fresh vegetables, or even cheese if your family eats dairy during Passover. Adding schmaltz (rendered chicken fat) can give it a rich, traditional flavor, but olive oil works just as well for a vegetarian-friendly option.
What makes it so special is its versatility. You can serve it as a main dish or a hearty side, and it tastes just as good reheated the next day. It’s also naturally gluten-free, which is a bonus for anyone with dietary restrictions! Whether it’s on a seder plate or the centerpiece of a weekday Passover meal, Passover Potato Pie is a dish that celebrates tradition and creativity all at once.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are probably already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Russet potatoes: These are ideal because they’re starchy and hold their shape well.
- Onions: Sautéed onions add a sweet and savory flavor that elevates the dish.
- Eggs: They act as a binder, giving the pie its structure.
- Matzo meal: Optional, but it can add texture and absorb some moisture.
- Salt and pepper: Seasoning is everything in a dish this simple.
- Olive oil or schmaltz: Schmaltz (rendered chicken fat) adds a traditional touch, but olive oil works too.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill works wonders here.
Optional additions include sautéed mushrooms, grated carrots, or even shredded cheese (if you’re making a dairy-friendly version).
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How to Make Passover Potato Pie
Making a passover potato pie isn’t complicated, but there are a few key steps to ensure it turns out just right. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s golden, crispy, and packed with flavor.
1. Prep the Potatoes
Start by peeling your potatoes and boiling them until they’re fork-tender. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Drain them and let them cool slightly before mashing or shredding. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash lightly and leave some pieces intact.
2. Sauté the Onions
While the potatoes are cooling, heat some olive oil or schmaltz in a skillet. Add the diced onions and cook them over medium heat until they’re soft and golden brown. This step adds a sweet, savory depth to your pie.
3. Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed or shredded potatoes, sautéed onions, eggs, matzo meal (if using), salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs. Mix everything until it’s well combined but not overworked. You want the mixture to hold together without becoming gummy.
4. Assemble the Pie
Grease a pie dish or casserole with olive oil. Spread the potato mixture evenly in the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. For extra flavor, you can drizzle a little olive oil or schmaltz on top before baking.
5. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the potato pie for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
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Tips for the Best Passover Potato Pie
- Choose the Right Potatoes
Russet potatoes are the best choice because they’re starchy and hold their shape well. Yukon Golds can also work if you want a creamier texture. - Don’t Skip the Onions
The sautéed onions add a sweet, caramelized flavor that’s essential to the dish. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder, but fresh is always better. - Season Generously
Potatoes need a good amount of seasoning, so don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. Taste the mixture before baking to make sure it’s well-seasoned. - Make it Ahead
This pie reheats beautifully, so feel free to make it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. - Add Toppings
For extra crunch, sprinkle the top with crushed matzo or breadcrumbs before baking. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh herbs right before serving.
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What to Serve with Passover Potato Pie
Passover potato pie is incredibly versatile, making it a great addition to almost any holiday spread. Its creamy, savory flavor and hearty texture pair beautifully with traditional Passover dishes. Here are some ideas for creating a well-rounded meal:
- Roast chicken: The crispy, golden skin and juicy meat of a roast chicken complement the creamy potato pie perfectly. It’s a classic pairing that feels both comforting and elegant. Add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to your roast for an extra burst of flavor.
- Braised brisket: Rich, tender brisket with its savory, slightly sweet sauce works wonders alongside the mild, starchy flavors of the potato pie. The sauce from the brisket can even double as a gravy for the pie, tying the meal together.
- Matzo ball soup: A warm, comforting bowl of matzo ball soup makes a great starter. It sets the tone for a cozy, festive meal and provides a lighter contrast before digging into the heartier pie.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots, asparagus, or brussels sprouts add a pop of color and freshness to your plate. Season with olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of garlic or paprika for a flavorful side.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie, adding brightness and balance. Toss in some sliced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch.
For the ultimate Passover feast, round out your table with some matzo, a charoset platter, and perhaps a glass of wine to toast the holiday!
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FAQs About Passover Potato Pie
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Passover Potato Pie can be made a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For best results, cover it with foil while reheating to keep it moist, then uncover for the last 10 minutes for a crispy top.
Q: Can I make this without eggs?
Yes! You can use a Passover-friendly egg substitute, like a potato starch and water mixture, or slightly increase the matzo meal to help bind the mixture. Another option is mashed sweet potatoes or a small amount of applesauce, which can add moisture and hold everything together naturally.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
As long as you skip the matzo meal or use gluten-free matzo meal, it’s completely gluten-free! You can also replace matzo meal with finely ground almond flour or potato starch, which work beautifully as substitutes. Just be sure to check all your ingredients, especially any store-bought options, for hidden gluten.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
This pie will stay fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating to maintain the best texture. To reheat, use an oven instead of a microwave for a crispier top. You can even freeze leftovers for longer storage if needed.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven straight from the freezer.
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Final Thoughts
Passover Potato Pie is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of comfort, tradition, and great flavors. Whether you’re making it for a big seder or a quiet family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite. Its simplicity, versatility, and ability to please a crowd make it a must-have for any Passover menu.
What makes this dish truly special is how it brings people together. During Passover, when dietary restrictions can feel limiting, Passover Potato Pie stands out as something everyone at the table can enjoy. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish for those avoiding meat and pairs beautifully with brisket, roasted chicken, or matzo ball soup. Plus, its creamy, savory flavor feels like a warm hug on your plate—exactly what you want during a family gathering.
The best part? It’s easy to customize. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own spin with extra veggies or herbs, it’s practically foolproof. And because it reheats so well, you can enjoy leftovers for days without compromising taste or texture.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family and friends. One bite, and they’ll be asking for the recipe—and maybe even seconds. Enjoy the warmth and joy this dish brings to your table, and have a wonderful Passover!