Mini Beef Pot Pies Recipe: Bite-Sized Comfort in Every Bite

Mini Beef Pot Pies are a delicious and comforting dish that packs all the flavors of a traditional beef pot pie into convenient, bite-sized servings. Made with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a buttery pastry crust, these mini pies are perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or as a fun twist on a classic comfort food. In this article, we'll explore the ingredients, preparation method, and tips for making Mini Beef Pot Pies at home.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pastry Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 4-6 tablespoons ice water

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

  1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
  2. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
  3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they are slightly softened.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetable mixture, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
  5. Add Liquid: Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry Crust

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  2. Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together and forms a ball.
  4. Chill Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Mini Beef Pot Pies

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out circles slightly larger than the muffin tin cavities.
  3. Fill Muffin Tin: Press each pastry circle into the bottom and up the sides of the muffin tin cavities, leaving some overhang.
  4. Fill with Filling: Spoon the beef and vegetable filling into each pastry-lined cavity, filling almost to the top.
  5. Cover with Pastry: Cut out smaller circles of pastry dough to use as lids for the pies. Place a pastry lid over each filled cavity, pressing the edges to seal with the overhanging pastry.
  6. Ventilation: Use a sharp knife to cut a small slit or "X" in the center of each pastry lid to allow steam to escape during baking.
  7. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove the mini beef pot pies from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Mini Beef Pot Pies

  • Customize Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
  • Make-Ahead: These mini pies can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
  • Freezing: Mini beef pot pies can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the pies and freeze them in the muffin tin. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To freeze after baking, cool the pies completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Conclusion

Mini Beef Pot Pies are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic beef pot pie in bite-sized portions. With a flaky pastry crust and flavorful beef and vegetable filling, these mini pies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether served as a party appetizer, lunchtime treat, or cozy dinner option, Mini Beef Pot Pies are a versatile and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. So why not try making a batch of these delicious mini pies at home and enjoy the comfort of homemade goodness with every bite?




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