Green Chile Cheese Pie

Ingredients:

Crust:

8 Tbs. cold butter, cubed into 1″ pieces

2 cups all purpose flour

1 large egg

1 Tbs. apple cider vinegar

2-3 Tbs. ice water

Filling:

8 oz. cream cheese

4 large eggs

14 oz. Stokes Green Chile with Pork

8 oz. Mexican Style Four Cheese Blend

sea salt and pepper

fresh cilantro

Instructions:

Crust:

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Combine all the ingredients, except for the water, in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until crumbly. Drizzle in the water and pulse until beady and doughy.

Transfer the dough beads to parchment paper and form into a disc.

Top with another sheet of parchment and roll out into a rough 11″ round circle. Transfer to a pie plate and flute the edges.

Filling:

Prepare the pie crust as directed.

Pulse together the cream cheese and eggs in the bowl of a large food processor, until smooth and creamy.

Add the green chile and pulse a few more times.

Pour into the prepared pie crust.

Tope with the cheese blend.

Bake at 425 for 35 minutes, until brown on top.

Remove from the oven and cool for several hours to set.

Top with fresh cilantro before slicing and serving.

Notes:

Butter Temperature:

Ensure the butter is very cold when cubing.

This helps achieve a flaky crust.

You can also chill the cubed butter in the freezer for a few minutes before using it.

Pie Crust Preparation:

When adding ice water, do so gradually until the dough just begins to come together.

Overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust.

Rolling Out the Dough:

If the dough is too sticky or hard to roll out, lightly flour your rolling surface and rolling pin.

If it cracks or tears, simply patch it together in the pie plate.

Transferring the Dough:

To easily transfer the rolled dough to the pie plate, you can roll it onto the rolling pin and then unroll it over the pie plate.

Cream Cheese Consistency:

For a smoother filling, ensure the cream cheese is softened before blending.

This prevents lumps in the filling.

Green Chile Variety:

If Stokes Green Chile with Pork is unavailable, you can use other green chili brands or even homemade green chili, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Adjusting Spice Level:

Taste the filling mixture before baking.

If you prefer a spicier pie, you can add a bit of hot sauce or extra green chilies.

Cheese Blend:

The Mexican Style Four Cheese Blend provides a good mix of flavors, but you can substitute with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your choice.

Baking Time:

Oven temperatures can vary.

Start checking the pie a few minutes before the suggested baking time to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.

The filling should be set and the top golden brown.

Cooling Time:

Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.

This helps the filling set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.

Serving Suggestions:

Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving.

This adds a fresh flavor and a pop of color.

You can also serve with a side salad or salsa for added freshness.

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information:

Per Serving (1 Slice, Approx.):

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you prefer.

Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package for pre-baking or filling and baking as needed.

What can I substitute for cream cheese if I need a dairy-free option?

You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or silken tofu blended until smooth.

Adjust seasonings as needed to match the flavor of cream cheese.

Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?

Yes, you can substitute other cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend of your choice.

Just ensure that the cheese melts well.

How can I make the crust gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

You might need to adjust the amount of ice water to get the right dough consistency.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach.

Just sauté them first to reduce moisture and ensure they blend well with the filling.

Is it necessary to pre-bake the crust?

Pre-baking the crust ensures it stays crisp and doesn’t become soggy from the filling.

If using a store-bought crust, follow the pre-baking instructions on the package.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can mix the filling ingredients using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Blend the cream cheese and eggs until smooth, then stir in the green chile by hand.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The pie is done when the top is golden brown and the filling is set (no longer jiggly in the center).

A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I freeze the pie?

Yes, you can freeze the pie. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.