Brisket, Jalapeño, Pickle, and Cheese Pie
A Bold, Savory Comfort Pie with Smoky Flavor
This Brisket, Jalapeño, Pickle, and Cheese Pie is a rich, savory dish that combines tender beef brisket with spicy jalapeños, tangy pickles, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a flaky crust. Inspired by barbecue flavors and comfort-food classics, this pie is perfect for family dinners, game days, or casual gatherings.
The key to success is well-cooked brisket, balanced heat from the jalapeños, and just enough acidity from the pickles to cut through the richness of the meat and cheese. This recipe assumes you are starting with already cooked brisket, making it an excellent way to use leftovers.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Filling
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500 g (about 1 lb) cooked beef brisket, finely chopped or shredded
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1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
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½ cup diced dill pickles, well drained
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2–3 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp flour
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½ cup beef stock or broth
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¼ cup heavy cream or whole milk
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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Salt to taste
For the Pie
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1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Equipment Needed
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23 cm (9-inch) pie dish
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Skillet or sauté pan
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Oven
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Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Crust (10 minutes)
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
Roll out the bottom pie crust and fit it into the pie dish. Press gently into the edges and trim excess dough. Place the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling to keep it cold.
2. Cook the Aromatics (8–10 minutes)
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat (160–170°C / 320–340°F stovetop equivalent).
Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. This step helps thicken the filling so it holds together when sliced.
3. Build the Filling (10 minutes)
Slowly pour in the beef stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Add the cream or milk and stir until smooth. Reduce heat to low (90–95°C / 195–205°F).
Stir in:
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Chopped brisket
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Jalapeños
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Pickles
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Black pepper
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Smoked paprika
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Salt (taste before adding, as pickles and brisket may already be salty)
Simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to combine. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Cooling prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
4. Assemble the Pie (10 minutes)
Remove the pie crust from the refrigerator. Spread half of the cheese evenly over the bottom crust. Spoon the brisket mixture on top, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the filling.
Cover with the top crust. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut 3–4 small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Brush the top crust lightly with egg wash for a golden finish.
5. Bake the Pie (45–50 minutes)
Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 45–50 minutes, or until:
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The crust is golden brown
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The filling is bubbling through the vents
If the crust browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 10–15 minutes.
6. Rest Before Serving (15 minutes)
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes cleaner slices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pie warm, not piping hot, with:
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A simple green salad
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Coleslaw
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Roasted vegetables
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Extra pickles or jalapeños on the side
It works equally well as a main dish or cut into smaller slices for parties.
Tips for Best Results
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Use smoked or slow-braised brisket for maximum flavor
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Drain pickles thoroughly to avoid excess moisture
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Adjust jalapeños based on heat preference
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A mix of cheeses (cheddar + mozzarella) adds better melt and stretch
Storage and Reheating
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Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
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Reheat slices in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes
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Avoid microwaving, which can soften the crust
Final Thoughts
This Brisket, Jalapeño, Pickle, and Cheese Pie brings together smoky, spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors in one satisfying dish. With a flaky crust and hearty filling, it’s a unique comfort food that’s guaranteed to stand out on any table.