Traditional British Meat Pie with Savory Ground Beef Filling Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting and classic dish that warms the soul, you can’t go wrong with this Traditional British Meat Pie with Savory Ground Beef Filling Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of a flaky, buttery crust with a hearty, richly seasoned filling that makes every bite pure delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward making this savory pie sing. Each element, from the onion’s sweetness to the thyme’s earthiness, plays a crucial role in creating that signature, homestyle flavor and mouthwatering texture.

• Ground beef: Choose a lean-to-medium fat ratio for juiciness without grease.
• Onion and garlic: These aromatics build the base of the filling’s rich flavor.
• Carrot: Adds a touch of sweetness and pleasant texture contrast.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling into a luscious gravy.
• Beef broth: Brings depth and moisture to the filling.
• Worcestershire sauce: Packs in umami for that iconic savory bite.
• Herbs and spices (thyme, salt, pepper): Essential for layering flavor complexity.
• Pie crusts: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade dough – flaky is key!
• Egg: For the shiny golden egg wash that makes the crust irresistible.

Variations

The beauty of this Traditional British Meat Pie with Savory Ground Beef Filling Recipe is how adaptable it is to your tastes or what’s in your fridge. Feel free to tweak the filling or crust to suit your cravings and dietary needs.

• Vegetable Boost: Add diced mushrooms or peas for extra texture and nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: Toss in a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a subtle heat twist.
• Cheesy Top: Sprinkle grated cheddar inside or on top before baking for gooey indulgence.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Use a store-bought gluten-free pastry or homemade alternative for gluten sensitivity.

How to Make Traditional British Meat Pie with Savory Ground Beef Filling Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pie Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to a toasty 425°F (220°C). Carefully place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate, letting it gently overhang the edges. This crust will create the sturdy, buttery base for your filling, so take a moment to press it in evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s beautifully caramelized. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrot, stirring occasionally until everything softens and the aroma fills your kitchen – trust me, this is pure comfort in the making!

Step 3: Thicken the Filling

Sprinkle in two tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir well to coat the meat and veggies. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring, then add Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Let it simmer gently for about five minutes until the mixture thickens into a luscious, savory gravy. Set aside to cool slightly before filling your pie crust.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour that glorious filling into the prepared crust. Place the second pie crust on top, pinch the edges together with a crimping motion to seal, then cut a few slits on the surface to let steam escape while baking. Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for that perfect glossy finish.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your pie in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, watching as the crust turns beautifully golden brown. If the edges brown too fast, simply shield them with some foil so the whole pie cooks evenly.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Once baked, let the pie rest for about 10 minutes. This little pause allows the filling to settle into a perfect sliceable consistency, making serving a breeze and eating that much more satisfying.

How to Serve Traditional British Meat Pie with Savory Ground Beef Filling Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few thyme leaves on top can add a lovely pop of color and fresh aroma to your pie right before serving. For a touch of indulgence, serve with a dollop of tangy mustard or horseradish sauce on the side.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with classic British sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttered peas. Alternatively, a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables offer a refreshing contrast that rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try making mini versions in ramekins or muffin tins—perfect for parties or individual servings. You can also brush the crust with a little milk and sprinkle sesame seeds for an inviting, rustic look that dazzles your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pie can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crust from becoming soggy, cool completely before refrigerating and reheat gently.

Freezing

This Traditional British Meat Pie with Savory Ground Beef Filling Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the crust refreshes its flakiness. Avoid microwaving to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this Traditional British Meat Pie with Savory Ground Beef Filling Recipe as much as I do. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, warms hearts, and makes any day feel a little more special. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share with loved ones!

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