Oxtail Pot Pie with Mac & Cheese Crust

Are you ready to experience the ultimate comfort food? Oxtail Pot Pie with Mac & Cheese Crust is a next-level twist on two beloved classics—rich, hearty oxtail stew and the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. This dish combines the flavors of tender, slow-cooked oxtail with a perfectly baked mac and cheese topping. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll never look at pot pie the same way again. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in, special gatherings, or just when you need to indulge in some soul-soothing food.

Why You’ll Love Oxtail Pot Pie with Mac & Cheese Crust

Hearty & Comforting

The oxtail in this pot pie is slowly braised until it’s fall-off-the-bone tender, packed with rich, savory flavors. The luxurious mac and cheese crust adds a creamy, cheesy layer that perfectly balances the deep, meaty filling. It’s a dish that hugs you from the inside out!

Elevated Twist on Classic Comfort Foods

This isn’t your ordinary pot pie! By using oxtail, a cut that’s rich in flavor and perfect for slow cooking, and topping it with mac and cheese, this dish takes comfort food to a whole new level.

Showstopper for Any Occasion

If you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to impress your family with something special, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s rich, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for those who love hearty meals.

All-in-One Dish

This pot pie is a one-pan wonder. The oxtail stew filling and mac and cheese crust cook together in perfect harmony, creating a meal that’s easy to serve and even easier to clean up after.

Ingredients

For the Oxtail Stew Filling:

• Oxtail: The star of the show. Braised until tender and succulent.
• Onion: For sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Carrots: Adds a subtle sweetness and color to the stew.
• Celery: Gives the stew that savory backbone.
• Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better.
• Tomato paste: For richness and a slight tang.
• Beef broth: The base of the stew, giving it a deep, savory flavor.
• Red wine: Adds a rich, full-bodied flavor to the stew.
• Bay leaves: For a little herby aroma and depth.
• Thyme: Earthy and aromatic to complement the meat.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

For the Mac & Cheese Crust:

• Elbow macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese.
• Butter: For richness and to coat the pasta.
• All-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce and create a creamy base.
• Whole milk: For creaminess.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: The cheesy goodness you know and love.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds that beautiful melt and stretch.
• Eggs: To bind the mac and cheese together and help it set.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

Instructions

1. Braise the Oxtail

Start by browning the oxtail in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until the meat gets a nice brown color on all sides. This adds incredible flavor to the stew. Once browned, remove the oxtail and set it aside.

In the same pot, add a little oil if needed, then sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Return the oxtail to the pot, and pour in the beef broth and red wine. Toss in the bay leaves and thyme, then season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the oxtail is incredibly tender and the meat is falling off the bone.

2. Prepare the Mac & Cheese

While the oxtail stew is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly add the whole milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and continue to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.

Beat the eggs and add them to the cheese sauce, then stir in the cooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the mac and cheese mixture aside.

3. Assemble the Pot Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Once the oxtail is cooked and tender, remove it from the pot and shred the meat. Discard the bones and return the meat to the stew, discarding the bay leaves. If needed, reduce the sauce further by simmering to thicken it. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Transfer the oxtail stew filling into a large, oven-safe baking dish or individual pie dishes. Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the top, covering the stew completely.

4. Bake

Place the assembled pot pie into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the mac and cheese crust is golden brown and bubbling. For an extra crispy crust, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Let the pot pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out portions of the oxtail stew with the creamy mac and cheese crust and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories per serving: ~700
Total Fat: 35g

• Saturated Fat: 15g
  Cholesterol: 85mg
  Sodium: 950mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 55g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 6g
  Protein: 40g
  Vitamin A: 20%
  Vitamin C: 10%
  Calcium: 25%
  Iron: 25%

Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours (including braising)
Total Time: 3.5 hours

How to Serve Oxtail Pot Pie with Mac & Cheese Crust

Perfect for Special Occasions

This dish makes an incredible main course for a special dinner. Serve it with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the pie.

Pair with a Robust Red Wine

A full-bodied red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, pairs beautifully with the rich, savory flavors of the oxtail and the cheesy mac and cheese crust.

Ideal for Comfort Food Lovers

For a cozy night in, this dish is perfect for curling up with a blanket and enjoying a hearty, indulgent meal that’ll make you feel like you’re being hugged by food.

Additional Tips

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the oxtail stew and mac and cheese separately a day ahead. When ready to serve, simply assemble the pot pie and bake.

Can I use beef stew meat instead of oxtail?

A: While oxtail gives a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute with beef stew meat if you prefer. Just cook it until it’s tender.

Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, this dish freezes well! After baking, allow it to cool, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly in the oven before serving.

How do I get the mac and cheese crust extra crispy?

A: For a crunchy crust, finish baking with a quick broil for about 2-3 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the mac and cheese?

A: Absolutely! You can swap in Gouda, Fontina, or Gruyère for a more gourmet mac and cheese topping.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this recipe without wine?
A1: Yes, you can omit the wine and use extra beef broth or water in its place.

Q2: How can I make this dish spicier?
A2: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the oxtail stew for a spicy kick.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the mac and cheese crust crispy.

Q4: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A4: Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the mac and cheese sauce.

Q5: What type of baking dish should I use?
A5: A large 9×13 inch casserole dish works well, or you can use individual ramekins for personal-sized servings.

Q6: Can I use pre-cooked oxtail?
A6: If you have pre-cooked oxtail, simply skip the braising step and add the cooked meat directly into the stew with the broth and vegetables.

Q7: Can I use a different crust?
A7: Yes, you can use a flaky pastry crust or mashed potatoes instead of the mac and cheese topping if you prefer.

Q8: Can I make the mac and cheese crust ahead of time?
A8: Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready.

Q9: Can I use other vegetables in the oxtail stew?
A9: Absolutely! You can add parsnips, turnips, or potatoes for extra heartiness.

Q10: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A10: You can make a vegetarian pot pie by replacing the oxtail with mushrooms or a hearty vegetable stew.

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Conclusion

This Oxtail Pot Pie with Mac & Cheese Crust is the ultimate comfort food experience—rich, hearty, and absolutely indulgent. The tender oxtail filling pairs perfectly with the creamy mac and cheese topping, making this dish a guaranteed winner at your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this is a meal that will satisfy every craving. Happy cooking!

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