Minced Beef and Guinness Pie

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table, then this Minced Beef and Guinness Pie is just what you need! This recipe is close to my heart because it combines the rich flavors of savory beef with a flaky, golden pastry that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this pie makes for a hearty meal that warms both the stomach and soul.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself after a long day, this pie is sure to delight. Its delicious filling and crispy crust make it a favorite in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is friendly even for beginners. You’ll have a delightful meal on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The comforting flavors of minced beef and rich gravy will win over even the pickiest eaters. Everyone loves pie!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble it when you’re ready to bake. Perfect for busy schedules!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs and beef stock creates a rich, savory filling that pairs perfectly with the buttery puff pastry.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend dinner or a special occasion, this pie is a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this scrumptious Minced Beef and Guinness Pie!

For the Filling

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
• 500 g ground beef (minced beef) (preferably grass-fed)
• 1 large white onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (plain flour Australia and UK) (for thickening)
• 330 ml dark beef broth (or substitute with rich vegetable broth if preferred)
• 300 ml beef stock (beef broth or beef bouillon) (homemade or quality store-bought)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 pinch ground black pepper

For the Crust

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

Variations

One of the great things about this Minced Beef and Guinness Pie is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option while keeping all those wonderful flavors.
• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or peas to boost nutrition and add more color to your filling.
• Herb It Up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it Vegetarian: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version that still delivers on taste!

How to Make Minced Beef and Guinness Pie

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). A hot oven ensures that our pastry gets nice and crispy while baking.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. This step adds depth of flavor as browning releases those delicious juices. Once browned, transfer the beef to a separate bowl.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pan, add the onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Adding garlic later brings out its fragrance without burning it—just one minute will do!

Step 4: Thicken with Flour

Stir in the flour and cook for another minute until lightly golden. This creates a roux that will help thicken our pie filling beautifully.

Step 5: Create Delicious Gravy

Gradually add your dark beef broth to the mixture while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these bits are packed with flavor! Let it simmer for a couple of minutes before returning your browned beef to the pan along with beef stock, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Step 6: Simmer Until Thickened

Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and let it cook for about 45 minutes while stirring occasionally—this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together into an amazing stew.

Step 7: Assemble Your Pie

Transfer your delicious filling into a pie dish. Roll out your puff pastry over it, sealing edges by pressing down gently with a fork. Remember to trim any excess pastry—you want it neat!

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Brush your pastry with beaten egg for that golden finish! Don’t forget to pierce a small hole in the middle; this lets steam escape while baking so we don’t end up with soggy pastry.

Step 9: Bake

Pop your pie into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes until you see that beautiful golden crust forming! Once done, let it cool slightly before serving—your kitchen will smell amazing!

And there you have it—a perfect Minced Beef and Guinness Pie that’s sure to impress everyone at your dining table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Minced Beef and Guinness Pie

Making the perfect Minced Beef and Guinness Pie can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you achieve a comforting, delicious result every time.

• Choose high-quality beef: Using grass-fed or organic minced beef enhances the flavor of your pie, making it richer and more satisfying.
• Let the filling cool: Allowing the beef filling to cool slightly before topping it with puff pastry prevents sogginess and ensures a flaky crust.
• Don’t rush the simmering process: Giving the filling ample time to simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more robust taste.
• Use an egg wash generously: A generous layer of beaten egg on the pastry not only gives it a beautiful golden color but also adds a lovely sheen that makes your pie visually appetizing.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add herbs or spices like rosemary or bay leaves for an extra layer of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

How to Serve Minced Beef and Guinness Pie

Serving your Minced Beef and Guinness Pie can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to present this heartwarming dish that will make your meal feel special.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the pie.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes can provide an exciting contrast to the savory filling.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting side that complements the hearty pie perfectly. They’re great for soaking up any extra gravy!
• Steamed green beans: Their crisp texture and vibrant color add balance to the dish, while their mild flavor won’t overpower the rich pie.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts, roasted until caramelized adds both sweetness and depth to your meal.
• Simple side salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Minced Beef and Guinness Pie will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your dinner table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Minced Beef and Guinness Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish any night of the week. Making it in advance can save you time on busy evenings, and it tastes just as delicious when reheated!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the filling and pastry separately to maintain crispness.

Freezing

• Cool the pie completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking; you can bake directly from frozen when ready.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Place the pie in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 25-30 minutes if thawed, or 45-60 minutes if frozen, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Minced Beef and Guinness Pie.

Can I use a different type of meat for Minced Beef and Guinness Pie?

Absolutely! You can substitute minced lamb or chicken if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What makes this Minced Beef and Guinness Pie so special?

This pie combines rich flavors from the beef and a savory broth, creating a comforting dish that warms your heart. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home!

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Yes! You can replace minced beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock. The result will still be hearty and delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Minced Beef and Guinness Pie brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s a wonderful dish that celebrates comforting flavors and togetherness. Enjoy making it, whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy cooking!