Swanson’S New Meat Pie A Big Hit

In olden times, the British made a meat pie, topped it with a potato crust and called it shepherd’s pie.

Today, the Swanson frozen-food experts have come out with a potato-topped pot pie in both beef and chicken versions.

The beef pies we served to The Spokesman-Review’s reader food panel were a big hit, although that may have had something to do with the fact that they followed three samples of canned corned beef hash.

Panelists praised the hearty meat chunks, firm vegetables, flavorful gravy and crisp potato topping (not to mention all the fat and salt).

Then again, at two bucks per pie, a few tasters felt like they were getting fleeced.

Swanson Potato-Topped Beef Pot Pie

Price: $1.99 for 12 ounces.

Nutrition: 450 calories (44 percent fat calories); 1,280 milligrams sodium per pie.

Taste: ****

Value: ***

Comments: “Very nice, distinct flavors of taters, veggies and beef. Firm textures. Very good - I’d buy it.” - Vicki Deschaine

“Wonderful idea, hot and hearty. A nice way to serve an old favorite.” - Ann Finke