Brisket Jalapeño and Cheese Pot Pie Recipe
This savory Brisket Jalapeño and Cheese Pot Pie is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines tender smoked brisket, spicy jalapeños, and gooey cheese, all encased in a flaky golden crust. It’s perfect for using up leftover brisket or as a centerpiece for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked brisket, shredded or cubed
- 2 medium jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and pepper jack)
For the Crust:
- 1 pre-made pie crust or puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the shredded brisket and cook until warmed through. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the brisket and vegetables.
2. Thicken the Filling:
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the brisket mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Follow with the heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Add the frozen corn (if using) and adjust seasoning to taste. Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Pot Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust or puff pastry and press it into a pie dish, trimming any excess. Save some dough for a decorative top crust, if desired.
- Pour the brisket filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
- Place the remaining pie crust over the filling, sealing the edges by crimping them with a fork or your fingers. Cut a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake the Pot Pie:
- Brush the top of the crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Leftover Brisket: This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose smoked or slow-cooked brisket. If you don’t have brisket, shredded roast beef or rotisserie chicken can be used.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of jalapeños. For an extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the filling.
- Cheese Selection: Use a cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Homemade Crust: If you prefer, make a buttery homemade pie crust for an extra flaky result.
Serving Suggestions
This Brisket Jalapeño and Cheese Pot Pie pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a truly Tex-Mex-inspired feast, serve it with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pot pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warm. Individual portions can also be reheated in the microwave.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the pot pie but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
This Brisket Jalapeño and Cheese Pot Pie is a delightful fusion of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors wrapped in a tender crust. It’s easy to make and versatile enough to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish delivers bold flavors in every bite!
