16 Savory Pies That Highlight Winter Ingredients

Winter is the excellent time to indulge in hearty and warming savory pies that make use of the season’s best ingredients. From traditional favorites to wild and innovative pies, these pies offer a culinary adventure that delights the senses and satisfies the appetite. In this blog post, we explore 16 savory pies that highlight winter ingredients, providing unique recipes and cooking tips for each. Whether you’re a fan of comforting classics or eager to try something new and unexpected, there’s something here for everyone. Get ready to discover pies that capture the essence of winter, using ingredients that are both delicious and in season.

1. Classic Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is a comfort food classic that warms the soul on cold winter nights. The flaky pastry crust encases a creamy filling of tender chicken, carrots, peas, and potatoes. To make this pie, start by cooking onions and garlic in butter until translucent. Add diced chicken breast, cooking until browned. Stir in flour, chicken broth, and cream, creating a rich sauce. Incorporate winter vegetables, then pour the mixture into a pie shell. Top with pastry, sealing the edges, and bake until golden brown. For a twist, try adding leeks or parsnips. Serve hot, with a side of green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.

2. Mushroom and Leek Pie

Mushrooms and leeks come together in this savory pie that’s both earthy and satisfying. Begin by cleaning and slicing a mix of wild and button mushrooms. Cook them with sliced leeks in olive oil until tender. Add thyme, salt, and pepper for seasoning. In a separate saucepan, prepare a roux with butter and flour, gradually adding vegetable stock to form a thick sauce. Combine the mushroom-leek mixture with the sauce, then spoon into a pie dish lined with pastry. Cover with a top crust, brush with egg wash, and bake until the crust is golden. This vegetarian pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp winter salad or roasted root vegetables.

3. Lamb and Artichoke Pie

Lamb and artichoke pie is a delightful combination of flavors that brings warmth and joy to the table. Brown diced lamb shoulder in olive oil, then mix with onions, garlic, and quartered artichokes. Stir in tomato paste and rosemary, simmering until the lamb is tender. Spoon the filling into a pie shell, adding a lattice pastry top. Bake until the crust is golden and crisp. This pie is excellent for a winter dinner, served with mashed potatoes or steamed green beans. The artichokes add a unique twist, balancing the rich lamb with their delicate flavor.

4. Beef and Root Vegetable Pie

Rich and satisfying, beef and root vegetable pie is a winter staple that warms from the inside out. Start by browning beef chunks in a hot pan, then remove and set aside. In the same pan, cook onions, carrots, and turnips until browned. Return the beef to the pan, adding beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Simmer until the beef is tender. Transfer the mixture to a pie dish, cover with pastry, and bake until the crust is golden. For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg. Serve with a side of buttered peas or roasted asparagus for a hearty meal.

5. Turkey and Cranberry Pie

Turkey and cranberry pie brings together the flavors of a feast in a deliciously unique way. Use leftover turkey meat, shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Cook onions and celery in butter, then add the turkey, cranberry sauce, and a splash of chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and a hint of sage. Spoon the mixture into a pie shell, top with pastry, and bake until golden brown. This pie is a fantastic way to use up eftovers, and its sweet-savory blend is sure to please. Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted sweet potatoes for a complete meal.

6. Spinach and Ricotta Pie

This spinach and ricotta pie is a delightful vegetarian option, excellent for a light yet satisfying winter meal. Start by wilting fresh spinach in a pan, then mix with ricotta cheese, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Line a pie dish with pastry, spoon the spinach mixture in, and cover with a top crust. Bake until the pastry is golden and crisp. For added flavor, incorporate feta cheese or sun-dried tomatoes. Serve warm, with a side of tomato soup or a fresh garden salad. This pie can also be made ahead and served at room temperature, making it a versatile option for gatherings.

7. Salmon and Dill Pie

Salmon and dill pie offers a fresh and flavorful twist on traditional fish pies. Use skinless salmon fillets, cutting them into chunks. In a saucepan, prepare a creamy sauce with butter, flour, and milk, adding fresh dill, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold the salmon into the sauce, then pour into a pie shell. Cover with pastry and bake until the crust is golden. This pie pairs beautifully with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad. For an added twist, consider including capers or sliced olives in the filling, enhancing the pie’s flavor profile.

8. Beetroot and Goat Cheese Pie

For a colorful and tasty winter treat, try the beetroot and goat cheese pie. Roast beetroots until tender, then slice and arrange in a pie dish. Crumble goat cheese over the beets, adding walnuts and a drizzle of honey for sweetness. Cover with pastry and bake until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. This pie is a feast for the eyes and the palate, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures. Pair with a side of mixed greens or a fennel and orange salad for a refreshing contrast. It’s a striking and delicious dish for any winter gathering.

9. Curried Vegetable Pie

Curried vegetable pie is a warming dish that brings the flavors of India to your winter table. Start by cooking onions, garlic, and ginger in oil, then add diced potatoes, carrots, and peas. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, and cumin, cooking until the vegetables are tender. Spoon the mixture into a pie shell, cover with pastry, and bake until golden. For added flavor, include coconut milk or chopped tomatoes. Serve with a side of basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal. This pie is excellent for those seeking a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option.

10. Duck and Orange Pie

Duck and orange pie offers a gourmet experience that elevates winter dining. Begin by browning duck breasts in a pan, then set aside. Cook onions and garlic, adding orange zest and juice. Return the duck to the pan, adding chicken stock and thyme. Simmer until tender, then spoon into a pie shell. Cover with pastry and bake until golden. The combination of rich duck and zesty orange creates a memorable dish excellent for special occasions. Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. This pie is sure to impress guests with its sophisticated flavors and elegant presentation.

11. Parsnip and Thyme Pie

Parsnips are often overlooked, but they shine in this delightful pie. The sweetness of the parsnips is complemented by the earthiness of fresh thyme, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Excellent for a winter’s evening, this pie offers comfort in every bite. The filling is creamy, with chunks of parsnips that melt in your mouth. The thyme adds a fragrant note, bringing a touch of freshness to the dish. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

12. Vegetable and Cheese Medley Pie

This vegetable and cheese medley pie is a versatile and delicious option for winter meals. Cook a mix of seasonal vegetables, such as squash, zucchini, and bell peppers, in olive oil. Add grated cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, and season with salt and pepper. Spoon the mixture into a pie shell, cover with pastry, and bake until golden. For added flavor, incorporate herbs like basil or oregano. Serve with a side of tomato soup or a fresh salad. This pie is excellent for those looking to enjoy a variety of flavors in one dish, offering a comforting and satisfying meal.

13. Brussels Sprout and Bacon Pie

Brussels sprouts and bacon are a classic combination, and this pie brings them together in a delicious new way. The smoky flavor of the bacon enhances the slightly bitter taste of the Brussels sprouts, creating a savory delight. The filling is rich and flavorful, with crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts. A touch of cream ties it all together, making it a excellent winter comfort food. This pie is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with a side of mashed potatoes.

14. Sweet Potato and Chorizo Pie

Sweet potato and chorizo pie offers a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors. Start by roasting sweet potatoes until tender. Cook sliced chorizo in a pan, adding onions, garlic, and paprika. Mix with the roasted sweet potatoes, spoon the mixture into a pie shell, and cover with pastry. Bake until golden brown. This pie is ideal for those seeking a bold and flavorful dish, with the sweet potatoes balancing the spicy chorizo. Serve with a side of cooked greens or a fresh salad. It’s a delicious and satisfying option for a winter meal, offering both warmth and excitement.

15. Butternut Squash and Sage Pie

Butternut squash and sage pie is a comforting and aromatic dish that captures the essence of winter. Roast butternut squash cubes until tender, then mix with cooked onions, garlic, and fresh sage. Spoon the mixture into a pie shell, cover with pastry, and bake until golden. The sweet and nutty flavor of the squash pairs beautifully with the aromatic sage, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a winter salad. This pie is ideal for cozy dinners, offering a taste of the season’s best ingredients in every bite.

16. Celeriac and Blue Cheese Pie

Celeriac and blue cheese come together in this unique and flavorful pie. The creamy texture of the celeriac is ideally balanced by the bold taste of the blue cheese, creating a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The filling is smooth and velvety, with hints of pepper and nutmeg. The blue cheese adds a tangy edge, making each bite a delightful experience. Pair this pie with a crisp pear salad for a refreshing contrast.