Classic Meat Pie Recipe

by

A Comfort Food Favorite

If you’re looking for a savory, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than the classic meat pie. With its flaky crust and richly spiced beef filling, this recipe is a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something warm and hearty, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through every step of creating these delicious meat pies. We’ll share tips, equipment needed, and storage solutions to make your cooking experience seamless. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic meat pie recipe is perfect for:

  • Home cooks who enjoy creating from-scratch meals.
  • Meal preppers looking for a versatile dish that reheats beautifully.
  • Busy parents who need a make-ahead dinner option that kids and adults alike will devour.

With a blend of bold spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin, paired with the savory richness of ground beef, every bite packs a punch of flavor. Plus, the golden, flaky crust makes these pies irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delectable pies:

  • For the filling:
    • 1 lb ground beef
    • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    • 1 tsp chili powder
    • 1 tsp ground cumin
    • 1 tsp salt
    • ¼ tsp ground white pepper
    • ½ tsp ground black pepper
    • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
    • 1 small onion, chopped
    • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
    • 1 jalapeño, chopped
    • 4 plum tomatoes, diced
    • 1 tsp dried thyme
    • 4 fresh bay leaves
    • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
    • 2 tbsp flour
    • 2 tbsp water
    • ½ cup scallions, sliced
    • 5 dashes of Louisiana hot sauce
  • For the crust:
    • Pie dough (store-bought or homemade)
    • 1 egg, beaten (for sealing and glazing)
  • For frying:
    • Vegetable oil

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin
  • 4-inch round cookie cutter
  • Pastry brush
  • Deep frying pan or deep fryer
  • Thermometer (to monitor frying oil temperature)
  • Paper towels

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Season and Cook the Beef

Combine salt, cayenne, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, white pepper, and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add ground beef and the spice mixture. Cook for 8–10 minutes until the beef is browned and fragrant.

2. Add the Vegetables and Simmer

Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, jalapeño, diced tomatoes, dried thyme, bay leaves, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for about 15 minutes until the vegetables soften and the liquid evaporates.

3. Thicken the Mixture

Stir in the flour and water until well combined, then add scallions and Louisiana hot sauce. Mix thoroughly and let the filling cool to room temperature.

4. Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a 4-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles. Place 2 tablespoons of beef filling in the center of each round.

5. Assemble the Pies

Brush the edges of each dough circle with beaten egg, fold in half, and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch. Chill the assembled pies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before frying.

6. Fry to Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F. Fry the meat pies until golden brown and crispy, then drain on paper towels.

Tips and Variations

  • Make it spicy: Add extra jalapeño or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for more heat.
  • Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or a hearty mix of lentils and mushrooms.
  • Baking option: For a healthier twist, brush the assembled pies with egg wash and bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover meat pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy texture.
  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked pies on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Pairing Suggestions

These meat pies pair wonderfully with:

  • Dips: Serve with spicy mayo, ranch, or a tangy tomato chutney.
  • Sides: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Drinks: Enjoy with a cold beer, iced tea, or a robust red wine like Malbec.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use store-bought pie dough?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought pie dough is a convenient option that saves time while still delivering great results.

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, baked meat pies are a healthier alternative. Just brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes.

Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A: Definitely. The filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Classic meat pies are the perfect blend of savory flavors and comfort. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a quick snack, they’re sure to be a hit. Why not give this recipe a try?

If you loved this post, don’t forget to share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!

Tweet
Share
Pin2
Share
2 Shares