Easy cheese and potato pie

Oven-proof baking dish - we like this dish by cookwear specialist Mason Cash that measures 26.5x18x6,5cm and is available to buy at Amazon .

Potato masher - this sturdy masher set makes light work of even the toughest spuds! Plus it comes with an easy-to-use peeler. See more details at Amazon .

This is the perfect midweek dinner for a busy family. The ingredients are cheap and found easily in any supermarket, and it's quick to prepare - then you can just bung it in the oven and forget about it while you get on with other things. Serve with microwaved frozen veg or a simple salad for a quick and easy dinner.

Alternatively, why not use this as a side dish? It's a great potato option if you're bored of mash and chips.

Other easy budget family recipes with cheese:

• The classic cheese flan recipe
• Macaroni cheese for kids
• Kale mac and cheese recipe

FAQs

What are the best potatoes for this recipe?

You can use any kind of potatoes you like, but floury potatoes like King Edwards or Maris Pipers usually make the best mash. Waxy potatoes like Charlotte or Anya don't usually mash as well, but they'll work in a pinch - you can even use new potatoes if that's all you have to hand.

How long should I boil the potatoes for?

It depends a bit on how small you cut your potatoes, but 15-20 minutes should usually be plenty. You'll know the potatoes are done and ready to mash when you can easily push a fork all the way through.

How will I know when the pie is cooked?

Once the cheese on top is golden and bubbling, you're good to go!

Can I reheat the leftovers?

Absolutely! The cooked pie will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for up to two months (defrost overnight in the fridge before using). When you're ready to reheat, just pop it back in the oven on a medium heat until hot. You can also reheat in the microwave, but it might lose a bit of its flavour.

You can add basically anything to this dish, so it's great for using up leftovers.

• Try adding cooked chicken or bacon, eggs , or any leftover veg you have hanging about (leeks, broccoli , mushrooms and green beans all work particularly well).
• Trying to get the kids to eat more veg, but don't want to spend ages peeling and chopping? Just chuck in a tin of beans, sweetcorn or peas - either in the pie itself or on the side.
• Mix things up by using different types of cheese. Stir in some Stilton for a more grown-up flavour, or use milder Cheddar or Emmental for young kids who are still getting used to more mature cheese. Grated parmesan makes a particularly scrummy topping, while little blobs of mozzarella in the pie will give it a gooey texture. Experiment to see what you like best!
• If, on the other hand, you fancy a more decadent dinner tonight, you can pop a little butter in the mash along with the double cream, and serve alongside your favourite main as a totally luxurious side.