About This Recipe
Slab pies have been all the rage for a few years now. These large pies are made in a 13″ x 9″ pan or a 15″ x 10″ jelly roll pan. There are recipes for apple slab pies, cherry slab pies, and peach slab pies. But have you ever seen a recipe for a savory slab pie? This fabulous recipe for Beef Cheese Slab Pie is incredibly good.
This is an old family recipe that I have updated through the years. The pie is simple, but interesting, with the best combination of textures and flavors. The crisp browned crust contrasts beautifully with the tender custard, rich beef, and savory cheese.
You really should make your own pie crust for this recipe. Purchased pie dough just doesn’t have the same texture or taste. I myself like my Hot Water Pie Crust. It’s simple, with the best tender and flaky texture. That recipe has been in my family’s recipe box for years. it breaks all the rules for traditional pie crust, it’s easier to make, and it makes a wonderful crust for any pie recipe.
Enjoy this recipe for dinner this weekend!
Tips for the best Beef Cheese Slab Pie:
- Don’t overwork the pie dough too much. I put it into the pan by breaking the dough into small pieces and evenly scattering them into the pan. Then gently start pushing the dough down, combining the pieces as you work. This takes some time, but think of it as a contemplative act. And think about how much you will enjoy the recipe when it’s done! Be careful that there are no holes in the crust, or the cream mixture will seep under the crust and make a mess.
- Be sure that the beef is completely cooked and drain the fat thoroughly. Too much fat will interfere with the cream mixture, or custard, setting in the oven.
- When you pour the egg and cream mixture into the crust, work slowly and don’t pour it all in one place. I like to put the cream mixture into a large glass measuring cup with a spout. Slowly pour over the beef mixture, moving the cup around the entire pan as you work. That way the liquid won’t overflow and the pie will be even.
- The pie is done when it’s puffed and deep golden brown in spots on the top. Take it out of the oven; it will deflate, but that’s okay. Cut into squares and enjoy.
Why this recipe for Beef Cheese Slab Pie works:
- The pie crust bakes while the custard sets. The combination of crisp crust and tender and savory custard is delicious.
- Because the pie itself is thin, and not thick like the typical quiche, it doesn’t bake as long. That means the custard is more tender than in most quiches.
- And because the pie is thin, you can use more filling ingredients (ground beef, onion, cheese) than is typical in most quiches. It holds together well.
Steps
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1
Done
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Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a 15" x 10" jelly roll pan with the pie crust. Push the crust up the sides of the pan so it can hold the filling. |
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2
Done
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Brown the ground beef, onion, and garlic in a heavy pan over medium heat. Stir often to break up the meat. |
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3
Done
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When the meat is browned, drain off the fat. |
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4
Done
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In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, eggs, light cream, and marjoram and beat until combined. |
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5
Done
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Sprinkle the crust evenly with the ground beef mixture, then sprinkle with the Havarti cheese. |
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6
Done
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Slowly pour the egg mixture into the crust over the beef and cheese, making sure it is distributed evenly. |
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7
Done
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Sprinkle the slab pie with the Parmesan cheese. |
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8
Done
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Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is puffed and browned in spots. Cut into squares to serve. |
