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British Beef Mince Pies Recipe

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4.6 from 50 reviews

These classic British Meat Pies are a savory delight featuring a flaky shortcrust pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of lean ground beef, sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a festival treat or a comforting meal at home.

Ingredients

Pastry

  • 2 cups shortcrust pastry

Filling

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme

Topping

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) ensuring it reaches the correct temperature for even baking of the pies.
  2. Prepare Pastry Liners: Roll out the shortcrust pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut circles sized to line your pie tins completely to create the base for the pies.
  3. Cook Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic until they are tender and fragrant. Add the lean ground beef and cook until fully browned. Stir in the beef broth and dried thyme, then let the mixture simmer gently until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together.
  4. Assemble Pies: Spoon the meat filling into each pastry-lined pie tin, filling them evenly. Top with another circle of pastry, then crimp the edges securely with a fork to seal the pies and prevent filling from leaking during baking.
  5. Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the top pastry layer to give a shiny, golden finish once baked.
  6. Bake Pies: Place the assembled pies on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, indicating they are cooked through and ready to serve.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, you may add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture during cooking.
  • Ensure the pastry circles fit snugly in the tins to prevent shrinking during baking.
  • Allow pies to cool for a few minutes before serving, as filling will be very hot.
  • These pies can be made ahead and frozen before baking; bake from frozen adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.