Name: British Meat Pies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 cups shortcrust pastry; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 egg (for egg wash)

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British Meat Pies are a beloved staple of British cuisine, known for their flaky, golden pastry and richly seasoned beef filling. These handheld delights are perfect for cozy dinners, picnics, or festive gatherings like the Bolton Food & Drink Festival. With a simple filling of ground beef, onion, and thyme encased in buttery shortcrust pastry, they’re the ultimate comfort food with a touch of tradition.

British Meat Pies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic British flavor with simple ingredients
Flaky, buttery pastry with savory meat filling
Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or hearty dinners
Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
Easy to customize with herbs or veggies
Oven-baked for a golden, crisp finish
Fun to make and even better to eat
Great for make-ahead meals
Pairs well with gravy or chutney
Brings a taste of the Bolton Food & Drink Festival home

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups shortcrust pastry
1 lb lean ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 egg (for egg wash)

directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the pastry: Roll out shortcrust pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut circles large enough to fit into your pie tins and line the tins with the pastry.
Make the filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Simmer: Stir in beef broth and dried thyme. Simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
Fill the pies: Spoon the meat mixture into the pastry-lined tins. Cover with another round of pastry and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
Egg wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pies for a golden crust.
Bake: Place pies on a baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool and serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Yield: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Cheese & Onion Pies: Add grated cheddar and sautéed onions for a vegetarian version.
Steak & Ale Pies: Use diced beef and replace broth with dark ale for a pub-style upgrade.
Mushroom & Thyme: Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for an earthy twist.
Spiced Beef: Add a pinch of paprika, cumin, or cayenne for a spicy version.
Mini Pies: Make smaller versions for snacks, picnics, or party platters.
Herb Crust: Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary into the pastry for extra flavor.
Gravy Lovers: Serve with a side of rich beef or onion gravy.
Frozen Shortcut: Use store-bought frozen shortcrust pastry to save time.
Add Veggies: Mix in peas, carrots, or potatoes for a heartier pie.

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap baked or unbaked pies individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat:

Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Not recommended as it may soften the pastry. Use only for quick reheating.

FAQs

Can I make these meat pies ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them unbaked for later.

What’s the best pastry for meat pies?

Shortcrust pastry is the traditional choice for meat pies, offering a firm and flaky texture.

Can I use store-bought pastry?

Absolutely. Ready-made shortcrust pastry works well and saves time.

What other seasonings work in the filling?

You can add Worcestershire sauce, parsley, paprika, or even mustard powder for more depth.

How do I prevent the filling from making the crust soggy?

Let the meat mixture cool slightly before adding it to the pastry to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a meat alternative.

What do I serve with meat pies?

They pair well with mashed potatoes, mushy peas, salad, or gravy.

How do I get a crisp bottom crust?

Preheat your baking sheet in the oven before placing the pies on it to help crisp the base.

Can I reheat meat pies in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until heated and crisp.

Why did my pastry shrink during baking?

Overworking the dough or not chilling it before baking can cause shrinkage. Let the pastry rest before baking.

Conclusion

British Meat Pies bring together everything you love about comfort food—flaky pastry, savory filling, and a golden finish that makes each bite unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating the Bolton Food & Drink Festival or just craving something hearty and traditional, these pies deliver warmth and flavor in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or quiet nights in, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of British cuisine.