Two-Ingredient Open-Faced Pie: Easy Recipe

Making a Two-Ingredient Open-Faced Pie is not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s a delightful embodiment of comfort food that also offers practical benefits in the kitchen. This simple recipe combines a flaky pastry made from flour and margarine with a hearty filling that includes dried beef and plantains, making it an appealing choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. While it’s delicious, it’s worth noting that the richness of margarine and cheese makes it best enjoyed in moderation, especially for those watching their fat intake.

This recipe is perfect for families needing a filling meal or anyone who enjoys experimenting with unique flavor combinations. The tender crust balances nicely with the savory filling, creating a delicious texture that is hard to resist.

Why This Recipe Is Helpful

• Easy to prepare with just two main components: dough and filling.
• Versatile, allowing for different fillings based on what’s available in your kitchen.
• A great option for serving a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Offers a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.

Who This Recipe Is Best For

This Two-Ingredient Open-Faced Pie is ideal for busy families or individuals looking to create a satisfying meal with minimal fuss. The combination of meat and plantains provides an interesting flavor profile that is sure to please a variety of palates.

Who Should Be Careful

Those managing dietary restrictions should be cautious, as this recipe contains margarine and cheese, which could be high in saturated fats. It’s also not the best choice for anyone who needs to monitor sodium intake due to the dried beef.

Ingredients

• 4 cups (480 g) all-purpose wheat flour
• 1⅓ cups (300 g) margarine (at least 77% fat)
• 1¼ cups (150 g) dried beef, coarsely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 medium raw plantains, diced
• ¾ cup (180 g) creamy cheese spread (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or preferred green seasoning, chopped
• 1½ cups (170 g) grated mozzarella cheese

Ingredient Notes

The all-purpose flour and margarine form a simple dough that can be made quickly, making it an excellent choice for last-minute meals. Feel free to play with the filling based on your preferences; for instance, you can substitute ground beef or shredded chicken for the dried beef if desired.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Frying pan

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and margarine. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to mix until the texture becomes crumbly.
2. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
3. While the dough chills, coarsely chop the dried beef, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add diced plantains to the pan and cook until they begin to soften, approximately 5-7 minutes.
6. Stir in the dried beef and cook until heated through. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
7. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
9. Place a spoonful of the filling onto each dough piece. For an open-faced pie, spread the creamy cheese on top, sprinkle with grated mozzarella and parsley.
10. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
11. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

• Ensure the margarine is cold to help create a flakier crust.
• Experiment with different kinds of cheese for a unique flavor.
• Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving to enhance their flavor.

Healthier or Lighter Swaps

• Consider using whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Substituting the margarine with a lighter oil can reduce saturated fat content.
• You could also incorporate additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the filling for more nutrition.

Common Mistakes

1. Not chilling the dough can result in a tougher crust.
2. Overloading the filling may make it difficult to seal the pies properly.
3. Skipping the step of letting the filling cool can lead to a soggy crust.

Variations

• Swap out the dried beef for cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of plantains for a different twist on texture.
• For a vegetarian option, replace the beef with mushrooms and additional vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these open-faced pies with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the pies. A dollop of yogurt or sour cream on the side can also add a refreshing contrast.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispness. The microwave can also be used, though it may not keep the crust as crunchy.

Nutrition Estimate

Approximately 320 calories per serving, with 15g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 18g of fat. Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients and portion size.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 10
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Course: Main Dish
Calories: 320

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this recipe good for digestion?
It contains simple carbohydrates, so some may find it heavy; consider pairing with fiber-rich side dishes.

Is this recipe suitable for people managing blood sugar?
Due to the higher carbohydrate content, it may not be the best choice for those needing to monitor blood sugar levels.

Can I make this recipe lighter?
Yes, using whole wheat flour and a lighter fat option can help reduce calorie content.

Is this recipe good for kids?
Yes, its comforting flavor and easy-to-eat nature make it appealing for children.

Can this recipe be meal-prepped?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pies when ready to bake.

This Two-Ingredient Open-Faced Pie is a delightful dish that brings simplicity to the dinner table while ensuring a cozy meal that’s perfect for everyone! If you’re interested in a recipe for a versatile dough that pairs well with various fillings, you might want to check out this apple dough easy economy recipe.