Savory Oxtail Pot Pie with Mac and Cheese Crust

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the richness of oxtail, the comfort of mac and cheese, and the warmth of a homemade pot pie. The Savory Oxtail Pot Pie with Mac and Cheese Crust is a creative twist on traditional recipes, utilizing everyday ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for those looking to elevate their cooking without sacrificing ease and accessibility. With its unique blend of textures and tastes, this dish is sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors between the tender oxtail, the creamy mac and cheese, and the flaky crust creates a harmonious and indulgent taste experience.
• The preparation is surprisingly straightforward, making it an approachable recipe for cooks of all skill levels.
• The impressive presentation and rich flavors belie the minimal effort required, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds oxtail, cut into large pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the mac and cheese crust:
• 8 oz macaroni
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Oxtail Filling – Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the oxtail pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the oxtail is tender.
2. Step 2: Prepare the Mac and Cheese Crust – Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. In a large saucepan, combine the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese, flour, and melted butter. Stir over low heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and stir until well combined. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Step 3: Assemble the Pot Pie – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked oxtail filling and the diced carrots and potatoes. Spoon the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the mac and cheese crust, spreading it evenly to cover the filling.
4. Step 4: Bake the Pot Pie – Bake the pot pie for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Handy Tips

• To enhance the flavor of the oxtail, use a good quality red wine and beef broth.
• For an extra crispy crust, top the mac and cheese with additional grated cheese and breadcrumbs before baking.
• Consider using leftover roast vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, to add to the oxtail filling.

Heat Control

To ensure the pot pie is cooked to perfection, it’s essential to control the heat. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. Monitor the pot pie closely during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent the crust from overbrowning.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right texture is crucial for this dish. The mac and cheese crust should be golden brown and crispy on top, while the oxtail filling should be tender and fall-off-the-bone. To enhance the crunch factor, top the mac and cheese with additional grated cheese and breadcrumbs before baking.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To prevent the crust from becoming too brown, cover the edges with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, to create a rich and complex flavor profile.
• Consider making the oxtail filling ahead of time and refrigerating or freezing it until ready to assemble the pot pie.

Storage Tips

• Leftover pot pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
• Use airtight containers to store leftovers and label with the date and contents.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This savory oxtail pot pie is perfect for gifting to friends and family. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or ceramic dish, wrapped in a tea towel or cloth napkin. Add a personalized note or card with serving instructions and a warm message.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding different spices, such as paprika or cumin, to the oxtail filling for a unique flavor twist.
• Use various types of cheese, such as gouda or feta, to create a distinct flavor profile.
• Consider adding other ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms, to the oxtail filling for added flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting

• If the crust becomes too brown, cover the edges with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• If the oxtail filling is too dry, add a little more beef broth or red wine to the mixture.
• If the mac and cheese crust is too thick, add a little more milk to the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the pot pie? Yes, you can freeze the pot pie for up to 2 months. Simply assemble the pot pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze.
• Is the pot pie gluten-free? No, the pot pie contains gluten due to the presence of wheat in the macaroni and all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute gluten-free alternatives to make the dish gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

The Savory Oxtail Pot Pie with Mac and Cheese Crust is a creative and delicious twist on traditional recipes. With its rich and complex flavor profile, tender oxtail, and crispy mac and cheese crust, this dish is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor variations to make the recipe your own. Happy cooking!