Name: Savory Beef Meat Pies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Comfort food
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15); 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/3 cup beef stock; 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Craving a golden, flaky crust wrapped around rich, savory beef filling? These Savory Beef Meat Pies are the answer to your comfort food dreams. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy dinner, a weekend brunch, or just want something hearty in your lunchbox, these hand pies deliver flavor and satisfaction in every bite. They boast a beautifully bronzed pastry shell with tender spiced beef tucked inside—a timeless combination that never disappoints.

Perfect for make-ahead meals or serving at gatherings, these meat pies are as functional as they are flavorful. You can enjoy them hot out of the oven or cold the next day, and their individual size makes them ideal for on-the-go munching. Plus, once you’ve made them once, you’ll want to keep a stash ready in your freezer for impromptu cravings.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, having the right tools will streamline your process and help achieve bakery-worthy results:

Heavy-bottom skillet: Crucial for browning the beef evenly and drawing out rich flavor from aromatics without burning.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients separately (especially if prepping pastry and filling simultaneously).
Rolling pin: Ensures even pastry thickness for a crisp, golden crust.
3-4 inch round pastry cutter: Helps create uniform pie rounds, which leads to even baking.
Pastry brush: Useful for applying an egg wash to achieve that glistening, golden finish.
Baking sheet with parchment paper: Prevents sticking and allows easy transfer of pies.
Cooling rack: Keeps the crust from becoming soggy after baking.

Each tool plays a role in achieving texture, appearance, and ease—so gather your gear before the magic begins.

Ingredients for the Savory Beef Meat Pies

Ground Beef (80/20 or 85/15): The heart of the filling. It brings richness and a tender bite to the pies. Opting for a balance of lean and fat ensures juiciness without being greasy.
Onion (finely diced): Adds depth and sweetness that mellows as it cooks, perfectly complementing the savory meat.
Garlic (minced): Boosts the flavor with aromatic sharpness.
Tomato Paste: Intensifies the umami and adds a subtle tang.
Worcestershire Sauce: Gives the filling that essential savory-salty complexity.
Beef Stock: Helps blend flavors and create a moist, cohesive filling.
Frozen Peas and Carrots: Adds texture, color, and a touch of natural sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the filling slightly so it stays put inside the pies.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, adjusted to taste.
Puff Pastry Sheets (store-bought or homemade): The crispy, buttery exterior that encases the beef. It turns golden and flaky in the oven.
Egg (for egg wash): Whisked and brushed over the pastry to give a glossy finish.

How To Make the Savory Beef Meat Pies

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and sauté the finely diced onion until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Flavor and Simmer

Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef stock and sprinkle the flour evenly. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Mix in the peas and carrots, and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble the Pies

Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Use a round cutter to cut circles. Place a spoonful of cooled beef filling in the center of half the rounds. Top with another pastry round, pressing edges to seal. Crimp with a fork.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake

Place the pies on a lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and puffed.

Best Way to Serve and Store Savory Beef Meat Pies

Serve these meat pies hot from the oven with a crisp side salad or a cup of soup for a comforting meal. They also shine as standalone snacks or party bites—especially when served with a tangy chutney, mustard, or creamy horseradish sauce on the side.

If you’re making them ahead, allow them to cool completely before storing. They can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the pastry flaky.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the meat pies from becoming soggy?

Ensure the filling is completely cooled before adding it to the pastry, and bake them on parchment paper for even airflow.

Can I use shortcrust pastry instead of puff pastry?

Yes! Shortcrust gives a more crumbly texture and holds its shape well, making it a great alternative.

What cut of beef is best if I want to make my own ground beef?

Chuck or brisket offers great flavor and a good fat ratio when freshly ground.

Can I make the filling in advance?

Absolutely. You can prepare the filling up to 2 days ahead. Just refrigerate and bring to room temperature before assembling.

Are these meat pies freezer-friendly?

Very much so. Assemble and freeze them unbaked or bake first and freeze. Just reheat in the oven until warmed through.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of chili flakes, cayenne, or a diced chili to the filling for a kick of heat.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If savory pies are your kind of meal, you’ll probably enjoy a few more hearty, beef-forward recipes:

You might love the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for a saucy, kid-friendly dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Or, try the Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt when you’re craving oozy cheese and golden bread.

For something cozy and spoonable, the Hearty One-Pot Beef Stew is an excellent make-ahead option. And if you’re looking for a pasta twist, the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce brings richness and cream to the table.

More into soups and casseroles? The Sloppy Joe Casserole adds a comfort food angle with minimal prep and big satisfaction.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your comfort food boards for later. Just click the Pin button.

If you end up making these Savory Beef Meat Pies, I’d truly love to know how yours turned out. Did you add any spices? Customize the veggies? Share your version in the comments below.

Looking for more recipe inspiration? I post daily over on Pinterest @LadyPlate with fresh ideas, shortcuts, and seasonal spins.