Easy Beef Pie Recipe for Comfort Food Cravings

Are you in the mood for a hearty meal that's easy to prepare but delivers on comfort and flavor? If so, a classic beef pie is exactly what you need. This timeless dish not only satisfies your hunger but also wraps you in the warmth of home-cooked goodness. In this post, we'll guide you through an easy-to-follow beef pie recipe that's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a cozy evening in by yourself.

Ingredients

• For the Beef Filling:
• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks of celery, sliced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1 bay leaf
• For the Pastry:
• 1 sheet of pre-rolled puff pastry (or homemade if you're adventurous)
• 1 egg, beaten for egg wash

Instructions

Prepare the Beef Filling:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef pieces and brown them evenly. This might take around 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the onions are translucent and vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine, cooking for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, and return the browned beef to the skillet.
6. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Remove the bay leaf, add the frozen peas, and stir to combine. Let the mixture cool slightly to thicken further.

Assemble the Pie:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the beef mixture to a pie dish. Ensure the dish isn't overflowing.
3. Cover the beef filling with the puff pastry sheet. Crimp the edges to seal the pie. Brush the top with the beaten egg to give it a glossy finish.
4. Make a few slits in the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

Baking:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and puffed up.
2. Let the pie rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.

🍲 Note: If your beef pie begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the crust from burning.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Pie

• Ensure your beef is dry before browning to achieve a good sear.
• Let the puff pastry come to room temperature before using it for easier handling.
• You can prepare the beef filling a day ahead to save time.
• If using homemade pastry, consider chilling it for at least 30 minutes before rolling out to keep it from shrinking too much during baking.

💡 Note: This beef pie can be refrigerated or frozen. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout.

In crafting this beef pie recipe, we've highlighted the importance of a hearty beef filling complemented by a crispy puff pastry top, creating the perfect comfort food for any meal. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or enjoying a peaceful night alone, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Remember, the key to a great beef pie lies in the tender beef and the flavorful sauce that blends effortlessly with the pastry's flaky texture. So, next time you're craving a comforting meal, give this recipe a try and let the flavors transport you to a place of homey comfort.

Can I use a different type of meat for this pie?

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Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken, lamb, or even a vegetarian mix if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times according to the meat type to ensure it’s cooked properly.

What if I don’t have puff pastry?

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If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use shortcrust pastry for the base and top, or simply use a mashed potato topping for a shepherd’s pie style dish.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

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The pie is done when the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up, and if you insert a knife into the center, the filling should be hot throughout. Ensure the internal temperature of the beef filling is at least 160°F (71°C).