Minced Beef and Guinness Pie

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the soul and brings everyone together, then this Minced Beef and Guinness Pie is just what you need. It’s a classic comfort food that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or busy weeknights when you want something hearty but easy to make. The blend of savory minced beef and rich flavors create a pie that feels like a warm hug in every bite. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress whether it’s a casual meal at home or a gathering with friends.

This pie is not just delicious; it also offers wonderful leftovers, making it great for meal prep. Plus, there’s something truly satisfying about pulling a golden, flaky pastry out of the oven after a long day. Let me share with you why this recipe has become such a treasured part of my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The combination of minced beef and savory broth creates an irresistible filling that warms you from the inside out.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe makes it easy to whip up even on busy days.
• Family-friendly: This pie is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pie when you’re ready to bake, saving you time during busy weeknights.
• Delicious leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day! Enjoy it again for lunch or dinner without any extra effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Minced Beef and Guinness Pie uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

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 (substitute for Guinness stout)
• 300 ml beef stock (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 best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Here are some tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: If you prefer a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Add veggies: Boost nutrition by including diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms in your filling for added texture and flavor.
• Spice it up: For those who love a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile.
• Try different crusts: If you’re avoiding puff pastry, consider using mashed potatoes as a topping for a delicious shepherd’s pie twist!

How to Make Minced Beef and Guinness Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, start by heating the vegetable oil. Add the minced beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned; this step adds depth to your filling by enhancing those lovely flavors.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once your beef is browned, transfer it to a bowl but keep any leftover oil in the pan. Now add the chopped onions into the same skillet. Sauté them until they are soft and translucent—this process brings out their natural sweetness before adding in minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Thicken with Flour

Stir in the flour next—this will help thicken your filling later on. Cook it briefly before gradually adding in dark beef broth while scraping up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom of the pan. Let this simmer gently; it’s where all those flavors start coming together beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return your browned beef back into the skillet along with homemade or store-bought beef stock, tomato paste, and dried thyme. Bring everything to a gentle simmer then reduce heat—let it cook for about 45 minutes while stirring occasionally until you’ve got a rich stew.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Once your filling has thickened perfectly, transfer it into your pie dish. Roll out your puff pastry dough over top—make sure to seal those edges well by pressing down with a fork! Trim any excess pastry if needed.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Give your pastry an egg wash by brushing beaten egg on top—this will give it that beautiful golden color when baking. Don’t forget to pierce a small hole in the center so steam can escape while baking! Pop it into your preheated oven for about 30 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

After baking, allow your pie to cool slightly before serving. Gather around with family or friends as you slice into this comforting Minced Beef and Guinness Pie—it’s sure to be loved by all!

Pro Tips for Making Minced Beef and Guinness Pie

Making this Minced Beef and Guinness Pie is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate it to perfection!

• Use quality beef: Opt for grass-fed minced beef for a richer flavor and better nutrition. The quality of the meat directly impacts the taste of your pie.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the filling to simmer for a longer time enhances the flavors. The longer it cooks, the more deliciously concentrated the sauce will become.
• Chill your pastry: If you’re using homemade puff pastry, chill it in the fridge before rolling out. This keeps the butter firm, resulting in a flakier crust once baked.
• Egg wash magic: Don’t skip brushing the pastry with beaten egg before baking. This gives your pie that beautiful golden color and glossy finish that makes it irresistible!
• Rest before serving: Letting the pie sit for about 10 minutes after baking allows the filling to settle. This makes slicing and serving much easier while enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Minced Beef and Guinness Pie

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this hearty dish. Here are some ideas to make your Minced Beef and Guinness Pie look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the pie.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop on top brings a creamy tang that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that soak up the delicious gravy from the pie.
• Steamed green beans: These add a nice crunch and vibrant color to your plate, providing a lovely contrast to the rich pie.
• Caramelized carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots add a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like this pie.
• Mixed greens salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie, offering a refreshing balance.

Enjoy your Minced Beef and Guinness Pie with these delightful accompaniments for a truly satisfying meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Minced Beef and Guinness Pie is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeks. You can prepare the filling ahead of time or even bake the pie in advance, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the pie cool completely after baking.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through, or reheat individual slices in the microwave.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries from fellow food lovers.

Can I make Minced Beef and Guinness Pie without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can substitute the Guinness with dark beef broth for a similar rich flavor without using alcohol.

What can I serve with Minced Beef and Guinness Pie?

This hearty pie pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How long does Minced Beef and Guinness Pie take to cook?

The total cooking time is about 90 minutes, but don’t forget to factor in about 30 minutes of prep time!

Can I use other types of meat in this pie?

Yes! While this recipe specifically uses minced beef, you could try using minced lamb or chicken if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this comforting Minced Beef and Guinness Pie! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and flavors reminiscent of cozy nights spent with loved ones. Enjoy every step of making it, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts once you’ve tried it—happy cooking!