There’s a cozy, comforting allure about the golden crust of a freshly baked meat pie that pulls on my heartstrings every time. Each bite reveals a savory blend of juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and sweet carrots, all nestled together beneath a flaky pie crust that practically melts in your mouth. The first time I made this Ground Beef Meat Pie, I didn’t expect to stumble upon a kitchen masterpiece that would soon become a family favorite. With autumn leaves swirling outside, the scent of butter sizzling with garlic and onions filled my home like a warm embrace, alluring everyone to gather around the table.
This recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience that transforms a simple meal into a treasured memory. Perfect for weeknight dinners or an impressive gathering with friends, the combination of flavors and textures makes it easily adaptable. Whether you choose to stick to tradition or add your twist, this pie promises to delight your taste buds and keep the fast food at bay. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a pie that will make your kitchen the heart of your home!
Why is Ground Beef Meat Pie a must-try?
Comforting Aroma: The warm fragrance of sizzling butter, garlic, and onions permeates your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around.
Hearty Filling: Each slice offers a delicious mix of ground beef, tender potatoes, and sweet carrots for a satisfying bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Recipe: Customize the filling by adding your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours!
Time-Saver: Prepare ahead and simply bake when you’re ready, making weeknight meals a breeze.
Crispy Crust: The flaky, golden pie crust is a delightful contrast to the rich filling, leaving you wanting more!
Ground Beef Meat Pie Ingredients
• A delicious journey awaits with these hearty ingredients!
For the Filling
• ⅓ cup butter – adds a rich, savory base for the filling.
• 1 cup onions, finely chopped – enhances the aroma and flavor as they caramelize.
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced – adds a bold, aromatic touch to the meat mixture.
• 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped – brings a fresh note that balances the richness.
• 1 lb. ground beef – the star of the show; choose lean for a healthier pie.
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and grated – contributes creaminess and helps bind the filling.
• 2 carrots, peeled and grated – adds natural sweetness and nutrition to the mix.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – deepens the savory flavor profile of the filling.
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce – enhances color and adds depth to the meat.
• 2 teaspoons salt – brings out the flavors of all the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – adds a touch of heat and complexity.
• ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs – ensures a light, textured filling that holds together well.
For the Pie Crust
• 9-inch double crust pie dough – store-bought or homemade, it creates a flaky shell that complements the filling nicely.
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) – gives the top crust a beautiful, golden finish.
This Ground Beef Meat Pie is a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to any table, making it an irresistible choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
How to Make Ground Beef Meat Pie
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Sauté: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the onions, garlic, parsley, and ground beef. Stir well and cook for 5-6 minutes until the meat is browned and no longer pink.
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Combine: Add the grated potatoes, carrots, Worcestershire sauce, dark soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir for another 2-3 minutes to combine evenly, then mix in the breadcrumbs until fully incorporated.
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Cool: Remove the skillet from heat and let the meat filling cool down completely for about an hour, or even overnight if you prefer.
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Preheat: While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 400°F.
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Line: Place the first dough disc into a 9-inch pie pan and gently press it down to form the bottom crust. Transfer the cooled meat filling to the dough-lined pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Cover: Carefully place the second dough disc over the filling, ensuring it fully covers the pie. Press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together, then crimp to seal. Make 5-6 slits in the top for ventilation.
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Egg Wash: Brush the top crust and edges with the beaten egg. If the oven isn’t ready yet, refrigerate the assembled pie to keep the crust intact.
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Bake: Bake the pie for 20 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Then reduce the heat to 350°F and continue baking for another 40 minutes until the top is golden brown.
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Cool: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Serve warm.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a vibrant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ground Beef Meat Pie
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Quality Meat: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier pie. This will help reduce excess grease without sacrificing flavor.
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Cooling is Key: Allow the meat filling to cool completely before assembling the pie. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and ensures a crisp texture.
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Crust Tips: If using store-bought pie crust, avoid overworking the dough when crimping; this keeps it flaky. Use a fork or your fingers for a decorative edge.
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Ventilation Matters: Don’t skip the slits on the top crust! These allow steam to escape and prevent sogginess, ensuring a beautifully baked Ground Beef Meat Pie.
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Try Variations: Feel free to mix in other veggies or seasonings to customize your meat pie. A touch of thyme or peas can add delightful flavors!
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Rest Before Serving: Always let the pie cool for at least an hour after baking. This helps the filling set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Ground Beef Meat Pie in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can make the filling up to 24 hours ahead: simply cook and cool the mixture, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The pie crust can also be prepared ahead, keeping it wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, fill the chilled crust with the prepared filling, cover with the top crust, and brush on the egg wash. This method ensures your pie stays just as delicious, with a perfectly flaky crust and savory filling, all while making your meal prep a breeze!
Storage Tips for Ground Beef Meat Pie
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Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely before storing. It can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes for the best texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, the ground beef meat pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: Thaw the pie in the fridge overnight before reheating. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until heated through or until the crust is crispy again.
Ground Beef Meat Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!
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Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a mix of finely chopped mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
For a filling that still satisfies, add your favorite spices and vegetables to enhance the flavor. -
Spicy Twist: Incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the filling for a kick.
This adds a delightful heat that can elevate the comforting nature of the pie. -
Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the filling for an aromatic boost.
These herbs bring a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory meat. -
Cheesy Option: Stir in shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, into the filling before baking.
Melted cheese will create a gooey, decadent filling that cheese lovers will adore. -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crust and substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
This ensures that everyone can enjoy this delicious pie without compromise. -
Sweet Addition: Add finely diced apples or raisins into the filling for a touch of sweetness.
The contrast between sweet and savory creates an intriguing flavor profile that surprises the palate. -
Savory Topping: Instead of a top crust, try topping the meat with mashed potatoes sprinkled with cheese and baked until golden.
This twist offers a comforting shepherd’s pie feel that’s just as satisfying. -
Asian Flair: Infuse your filling with sesame oil and add chopped bok choy or water chestnuts for crunch.
This takes your meat pie on a global adventure, embraced by bold, exciting flavors.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Meat Pie?
There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty pie to bring people together around the dinner table, creating comforting memories.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a velvety texture that complements the flaky crust of the meat pie beautifully.
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Steamed Green Beans: Fresh and vibrant, green beans add a crunchy contrast and a pop of color that brightens your plate.
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Garden Salad: A crisp salad, tossed with a light vinaigrette, offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the meat pie, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: The natural sweetness of caramelized carrots and parsnips provides a delightful contrast to the savory filling, making every bite feel like a celebration.
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Savory Gravy: Drizzling a warm, rich gravy over your pie gives it an irresistible boost of flavor, adding moisture and indulgence to each slice.
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Homemade Apple Crisp: For dessert, the warm spices of a baked apple crisp perfectly follow the savory notes of the meat pie, rounding off a comforting meal.
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Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine can elevate your dining experience, enhancing the flavors of the meat pie while bringing a luxurious touch.
Enjoy crafting a complete meal that makes your Ground Beef Meat Pie shine!
Ground Beef Meat Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for my meat pie?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option or regular ground beef for a richer flavor. Aim for 80/20 ground beef, as it strikes a good balance between fat and flavor.
How can I store the leftovers of my ground beef meat pie?
Very! Allow the pie to cool completely before storing. You can keep it in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to restore that delightful crispiness!
Can I freeze the ground beef meat pie?
Absolutely! For freezing, let the meat pie cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and the crust is crisp.
Why is it important to let the filling cool before assembling?
Very important! Cooling the filling prevents moisture from making the crust soggy, which ensures a beautifully flaky texture. If you’re short on time, let it cool at least for an hour at room temperature, but it’s best to cool overnight for the perfect result.
Can I use different vegetables in the meat pie filling?
Yes, absolutely! You can mix things up by adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the filling. Just remember to keep the total volume similar so it fits well within the pie crust. Experimenting is part of the fun in making your unique ground beef meat pie!
Is this recipe safe for pets?
No, ground beef meat pie is not safe for pets! It contains onions and garlic, which are harmful to dogs and cats. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly meal, I recommend preparing a simple cooked meat dish without these ingredients.
Savory Ground Beef Meat Pie That Will Wow Your Family
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the onions, garlic, parsley, and ground beef. Stir well and cook for 5-6 minutes until the meat is browned and no longer pink.
- Add the grated potatoes, carrots, Worcestershire sauce, dark soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir for another 2-3 minutes to combine evenly, then mix in the breadcrumbs until fully incorporated.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the meat filling cool down completely for about an hour, or even overnight if you prefer.
- While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Place the first dough disc into a 9-inch pie pan and gently press it down to form the bottom crust. Transfer the cooled meat filling to the dough-lined pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Carefully place the second dough disc over the filling, ensuring it fully covers the pie. Press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together, then crimp to seal. Make 5-6 slits in the top for ventilation.
- Brush the top crust and edges with the beaten egg. If the oven isn’t ready yet, refrigerate the assembled pie to keep the crust intact.
- Bake the pie for 20 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Then reduce the heat to 350°F and continue baking for another 40 minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Serve warm.