Egg and Bacon Picnic Pie Recipe for Easy Outdoor Meals

By:

Ruby Bennett

Published:

January 2, 2026

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Why You’ll Love This Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie

This egg and bacon picnic pie offers a simple way to enjoy a hearty meal outdoors, perfect for busy parents or students seeking quick yet satisfying food options. The recipe combines the classic flavors of eggs and bacon in a flaky crust, making it an ideal choice for food enthusiasts looking for picnic-friendly dishes. Beyond its taste, the pie’s preparation is straightforward, with minimal ingredients that deliver maximum enjoyment.

One of the key draws is its ease of preparation, as it requires basic kitchen skills and everyday items, allowing even baking enthusiasts or working professionals to whip it up without stress. Additionally, the pie packs protein-rich eggs and bacon, which can support energy needs for travelers and seniors. This makes it a versatile option that adapts to various events, from family picnics to quick weeknight meals. You’ll find the balance of savory flavors and simple execution truly appealing for creating memorable moments.

For those mindful of health, using ingredients like fresh thyme and leek adds nutrients while enhancing the dish’s taste. Diet-conscious individuals can tweak it to fit their goals, as mentioned in the recipe details. Overall, this egg and bacon picnic pie stands as a go-to recipe that brings joy to cooking, aligning with the blog’s mission to inspire accessible meals at healthy breakfast ideas on the site.

The pie’s preparation time includes about 30 minutes of active work plus 3 hours of chilling, and it cooks in roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes, serving 6 people comfortably. This efficiency helps newlyweds or busy professionals plan ahead, ensuring it’s ready for any outdoor adventure. In essence, this recipe’s blend of simplicity and flavor makes it a favorite for all skill levels.

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie
Essential Ingredients for Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie
How to Prepare the Perfect Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie: Step-by-Step Guide
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie
Mastering Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie: Advanced Tips and Variations
Tips for Better Results
How to Store Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie: Best Practices
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie
How long should I chill the pastry for an Egg and Bacon Picnic Pie?
Can I prepare the Egg and Bacon Picnic Pie ahead of time?
What’s the best way to cook the bacon for this pie?
What eggs work best in an Egg and Bacon Picnic Pie?
Can I freeze an Egg and Bacon Picnic Pie?
Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie
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Instructions
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Essential Ingredients for Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious egg and bacon picnic pie, and this section covers everything needed with precise measurements for success. Below is a structured list of all ingredients extracted from the recipe, ensuring you have exactly what’s required for both the shortcrust pastry and the bacon and egg filling. This comprehensive format helps home cooks measure out items accurately before starting.

2 cups plain flour (sifted) – for the shortcrust pastry
1/4 teaspoon salt – for the shortcrust pastry
145 grams margarine (chopped) – for the shortcrust pastry
1 egg yolk – for the shortcrust pastry (reserve the white for the filling)
2 tablespoons iced water – for the shortcrust pastry
30 grams margarine – for the bacon and egg filling
1 large leek (trimmed, halved lengthwise, sliced) – for the bacon and egg filling
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves plus extra sprigs for serving – for the bacon and egg filling
225 grams short-cut bacon (cut into strips) – for the bacon and egg filling
Freshly ground black pepper – for the bacon and egg filling, to taste
9 eggs – for the bacon and egg filling
1/2 cup sour cream – for the bacon and egg filling
1 cup grated tasty cheese – for the bacon and egg filling
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan – for the bacon and egg filling
1/3 cup grated tasty cheese (extra) – for the bacon and egg filling
Rocket leaves for serving – for the bacon and egg filling

These ingredients create a rich, satisfying pie that’s adaptable for simple salad recipes to pair with. For special dietary options, consider vegan or gluten-free swaps as outlined below to customize based on your needs.

Ingredient Category	Main Use	Dietary Variations
Pastry Base	Forms the crust	Use gluten-free flour for gluten-free diets
Filling Components	Adds flavor and texture	Swap bacon for plant-based options for vegan versions

How to Prepare the Perfect Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these clear steps to create an egg and bacon picnic pie that’s perfect for outdoor meals. Start by preheating your oven and preparing the ingredients, drawing from the detailed recipe provided. This guide incorporates precise directions to help you achieve great results with minimal effort.

To prepare the pastry, combine 2 cups plain flour (sifted), 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 145 grams margarine (chopped) until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add 1 egg yolk and 2 tablespoons iced water, processing until the dough starts to come together, then knead gently. Shape into a disc, wrap, and chill for 90 minutes.
Grease a 22cm springform pan and roll out the dough to a 36cm diameter circle. Press into the pan, trim excess dough, gather scraps, wrap, and chill again. Prick the pastry with a fork, cover, and chill for another 90 minutes.
Line the pastry with baking paper, add weights such as dried pasta or beans to prevent shrinking, and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 10 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 180°C fan-forced and bake another 10 minutes. Cool and remove the weights and paper.
For the filling, melt 30 grams margarine in a pan over medium heat. Add 1 large leek (trimmed, halved lengthwise, sliced), 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, and 225 grams short-cut bacon (cut into strips), and cook for 6-8 minutes until the leek softens. Season with freshly ground black pepper and cool slightly.
Increase oven temperature to 200°C fan-forced. Scatter the bacon mixture over the pastry base. Whisk 2 eggs with the reserved egg white and 1/2 cup sour cream, stir in 1 cup grated tasty cheese, then pour over the bacon mixture. Make indentations in the filling and crack the remaining 7 eggs into these. Top with 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan and the extra 1/3 cup grated tasty cheese.
Coarsely grate the reserved chilled pastry over the top of the pie. Place the pie on an oven tray and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce oven to 180°C fan-forced and continue baking for 30 minutes or until golden and eggs are fully cooked.
Garnish with extra thyme sprigs and serve warm or cold with rocket leaves. The total preparation includes 30 minutes active work plus 3 hours chilling, with cooking time around 1 hour and 10 minutes, serving 6 people.

This process ensures a flaky crust and well-set filling, making it a hit for family gatherings. For more tips on baking, check resources like how eggs benefit your diet.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie

Adapting this egg and bacon picnic pie to different dietary needs is simple, allowing you to enjoy it regardless of restrictions. Start with protein swaps like using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon for a leaner option. Additionally, consider plant-based alternatives to make it vegan-friendly without losing the savory appeal.

Swap traditional smoked bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner protein source.
Use plant-based bacon or tempeh strips for a vegan-friendly version.
Replace eggs with flaxseed or chickpea flour mixtures as vegan egg substitutes.
Substitute onions with leeks or shallots for milder sweetness, as seen in the recipe.
Add seasonal vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to diversify nutrients and flavors.
Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and plant-based milk for vegan and lactose-intolerant diets.
Adjust seasonings by incorporating smoked paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like chives for tailored taste profiles.

These changes help maintain the pie’s core flavors while supporting health goals, making it accessible for all.

Mastering Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your egg and bacon picnic pie to the next level involves refining techniques and exploring new ideas. For instance, blind bake the pastry for 10 minutes to achieve a perfect flaky crust, preventing sogginess as the filling is added. You can also experiment with flavors by introducing herbs like thyme or rosemary into the mix for aromatic depth.

Tips for Better Results

Flavor variations include swapping cheddar for feta or goat cheese to add tanginess, enhancing the overall profile. Presentation matters too; garnish with fresh parsley or smoked paprika before serving to make it visually appealing. For make-ahead options, prepare the filling and crust separately up to a day in advance, then assemble and bake when ready.

This pie not only satisfies hunger but also brings people together, as shared in many family recipes.

from cooking experiences. Remember, learning from errors like a runny filling can lead to better outcomes over time.

How to Store Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your egg and bacon picnic pie fresh and safe for later enjoyment. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to preserve quality. For longer storage, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing, where it can last up to 2 months.

Thaw frozen pie overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 160°C for 10-15 minutes to maintain texture.
Consider baking smaller pies for easy meal prep and label with dates for safety.

This approach supports busy lifestyles, ensuring you always have a quick meal option. For nutritional insights, visit nutritional facts of bacon.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Egg And Bacon Picnic Pie

How long should I chill the pastry for an Egg and Bacon Picnic Pie?

For best results, chill the pastry for about 90 minutes before baking. This resting time firms up the fat in the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the pastry hold its shape better during baking. While shorter chilling times like 20-30 minutes can work, the longer chill improves the texture, preventing shrinkage and ensuring a crisp, flaky crust.

Can I prepare the Egg and Bacon Picnic Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pie a day in advance. After filling and shaping the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it within 24 hours for the best taste and texture. Alternatively, bake it fully and reheat before serving for a quick picnic option.

What’s the best way to cook the bacon for this pie?

It’s ideal to cook the bacon until just crisp before adding it to the pie filling. This prevents the pie from becoming soggy and adds a nice texture. You can pan-fry or oven-bake the bacon slices until golden, then drain excess fat on paper towels before mixing with the eggs and other ingredients.

What eggs work best in an Egg and Bacon Picnic Pie?

Use large, fresh eggs for a custardy filling that sets well without being rubbery. Lightly whisk the eggs before combining with cream or milk and seasoning. This mixture creates a smooth texture that holds all the flavors together and makes the pie ideal for serving cold or warm.

Can I freeze an Egg and Bacon Picnic Pie?

Yes, this pie freezes well. To freeze, fully bake and cool the pie, then wrap it tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap. Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through for best taste and texture.