Discover the Comfort of Mini Beef Pot Pies: A Bite-Sized Delight

Craving a comforting and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than mini beef pot pies! These delicious, bite-sized delights combine tender beef, rich gravy, and flaky pastry to create a meal that’s both satisfying and convenient. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make these irresistible mini beef pot pies at home.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

mini beef pot pies

For the Pastry:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add Carrots and Peas: Stir in the carrots and peas, cooking until the carrots are slightly tender.
4. Thicken the Mixture: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the skillet and add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

2. Prepare the Pastry:

1. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Form the Dough: Gradually add the ice water, stirring until the dough begins to come together. Add more water if necessary, one tablespoon at a time.
3. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Assemble the Mini Beef Pot Pies:

1. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one of the dough discs on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a round cutter that fits your mini pie tins or muffin tin.
2. Fill the Pies: Press the dough circles into the wells of your mini pie tins. Spoon the beef mixture into each dough-lined well.
3. Top the Pies: Roll out the second dough disc and cut out slightly smaller circles to cover the tops of the pies. Place the dough lids over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and make small slits on top for steam to escape.
4. Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg.

mini beef pot pies

4. Bake and Serve:

1. Bake the Pies: Place the mini pies in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
2. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the pies to cool for a few minutes before removing from the tins. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of mini beef pot pies.

Why Mini Beef Pot Pies Are a Must-Try:

• Perfect for Any Occasion: These mini pies are ideal for dinner parties, family meals, or as a savory snack.
• Portable and Convenient: Their small size makes them easy to transport and serve, perfect for potlucks or picnics.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to the filling for a personalized touch.

Conclusion:

Mini beef pot pies offer a delightful combination of hearty beef, flavorful vegetables, and flaky pastry in a convenient, bite-sized package. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a comforting meal option, these mini pot pies are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm, savory goodness of homemade mini beef pot pies!