Beefy Pasties: Easy Weeknight Winner

Introduction

Transform humble ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal with these easy beef pasties! This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delicious, homemade hand pies—a delightful twist on a classic comfort food.

Why This Works

This recipe works because it balances savory beef with rich, buttery pastry. The ease of preparation makes it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, while the impressive presentation belies the simplicity of the method. The ingredients are readily accessible, making it a perfect recipe for any skill level. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Key Ingredients

🥩 1 lb ground beef
🧅 1 large onion, chopped
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🥔 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
🥕 1 large carrot, diced
🥣 1 tbsp beef bouillon
🌿 1 tsp dried thyme
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
🍃 1 tbsp olive oil
🧈 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts

Instructions

1️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2️⃣ Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.

3️⃣ Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots. Add the beef bouillon, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4️⃣ Assemble the Pasties: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unroll the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut each crust into four squares.

5️⃣ Fill and Seal: Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture into the center of each square. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative finish.

6️⃣ Bake: Place the pasties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.

7️⃣ Serve: Let the pasties cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Handy Tips

• Consider using a pre-made pie crust for extra convenience.
• For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
• Feel free to add other vegetables, such as peas, corn, or mushrooms.
• If you don’t have dried thyme, fresh thyme works well too (use about 2 tablespoons).

Heat Control

The oven temperature of 400°F (200°C) is crucial for achieving a golden-brown crust without burning the filling. Keep an eye on the pasties during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. The filling should be heated through and the pastry should be a deep golden color, indicating they are cooked perfectly.

Crunch Factor

The crunch in these pasties comes from the flaky pie crust. Ensure the crust is properly sealed to prevent the filling from escaping and to maintain its crispness during baking. Avoid overfilling the pasties, as this can lead to soggy bottoms.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For faster prep, chop the vegetables ahead of time.
• Use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes for the pasties.
• To prevent sticking, lightly grease the baking sheet before placing the pasties.
• For easy cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pasties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These pasties make a wonderful gift! Place them in a pretty basket lined with parchment paper or pack them individually in small boxes tied with ribbon. Add a personalized tag with the recipe or a fun message.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Spicy Beef Pasties: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture.

🌟 Cheesy Beef Pasties: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture before folding the pastry.

🌟 Mushroom and Beef Pasties: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the beef and vegetable mixture.

🌟 Mediterranean Beef Pasties: Add 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano to the beef mixture.

Troubleshooting

• Soggy Bottom: Ensure the pastry is properly sealed and avoid overfilling the pasties.
• Burnt Crust: Reduce the oven temperature slightly and keep a close eye on the pasties during the last few minutes of baking.
• Dry Filling: Add a tablespoon or two of beef broth to the filling if it seems too dry.

FAQ

• Can I freeze these pasties? Yes, unbaked pasties can be frozen on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
• Can I use a different type of meat? Ground lamb or turkey would be delicious substitutes.
• How can I scale this recipe? Double or triple the recipe as needed, adjusting baking time accordingly.
• Are these pasties gluten-free or dairy-free? No, this recipe uses wheat-based pie crust and butter. Use gluten-free pie crust and dairy-free butter for a suitable alternative.

Conclusion

These easy beef pasties are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! We encourage you to experiment with different fillings and flavors to create your own unique variations. Share your creations with friends and family, and enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!