Really Easy Steak Pie

Steak pie is one of those classic comfort foods that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dining table. With its flaky, golden-brown crust enveloping tender pieces of beef simmered in a rich gravy, this dish is sure to please anyone who takes a bite. The beauty of the Really Easy Steak Pie lies in its simplicity—using readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create a meal that feels both comforting and indulgent. Imagine serving this beautiful pie to family and friends, the aroma wafting through your kitchen, making everyone eager for a slice. This recipe is designed for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the scrumptious flavors of a homemade steak pie without the fuss. Let’s dive into how to make this easy yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are several reasons why the Really Easy Steak Pie will become a staple in your cooking repertoire. First and foremost, the taste is simply unbeatable. The combination of tender steak, savory gravy, and a flaky crust creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. Each bite offers a rich and satisfying experience that can transport you to a cozy pub or family gathering, making it perfect for any occasion.

Secondly, this recipe emphasizes ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious pie without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of the process allows you to enjoy the experience of cooking without feeling overwhelmed, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Finally, the appearance of the steak pie is sure to impress. The golden crust, beautifully baked to perfection, is not only appealing to the eye but also creates an inviting atmosphere at the dinner table. Whether you are serving it at a family meal or for special guests, the presentation of this pie adds a touch of elegance that elevates the entire dining experience.

Ingredients:

To make the Really Easy Steak Pie, you will need the following ingredients, which will form the foundation of this savory dish:

• 1.5 pounds of stewing beef, cut into bite-sized cubes: Look for well-marbled cuts for tenderness and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil: This will be used for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 large onion, finely chopped: The onion adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 carrots, diced: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and color, balancing the savory flavors.
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour: This will help to thicken the gravy and give it a hearty consistency.
• 4 cups of beef broth: A rich broth is essential for creating a flavorful filling.
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce: This adds a complex umami flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Thyme complements the beef beautifully and adds an aromatic quality.
• 1 bay leaf: This will infuse a subtle depth of flavor during cooking.
• 1 package of ready-made shortcrust pastry: This saves time and ensures a flaky crust without the need for extensive pastry-making skills.
• 1 egg, beaten: The egg wash will give the pie a beautiful golden finish when baked.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the filling to your preference.

These ingredients combine to create a hearty and fulfilling dish that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. The use of ready-made pastry makes this recipe particularly accessible, allowing you to focus on the flavors of the filling without the stress of making your own crust. Feel free to gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

How To Make Really Easy Steak Pie?

Making the Really Easy Steak Pie is a straightforward process that can be broken down into simple steps. Follow this detailed guide to create a mouthwatering pie that will impress your family and friends.

1. Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cubed stewing beef, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor.
2. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and diced carrots, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to coat. This will help thicken the gravy once the liquid is added. Cook the mixture for an additional minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaf, then return the browned beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
6. Once the beef is tender, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the filling cools.
7. Roll out the shortcrust pastry on a lightly floured surface, ensuring it’s large enough to cover your pie dish. You can also cut a piece to line the bottom of the dish if desired.
8. Transfer the cooled beef filling into the pie dish, then cover it with the rolled-out pastry. Pinch the edges to seal, and make a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
9. Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg to achieve a golden color during baking.
10. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.
11. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the filling set slightly and make serving easier.

Serving this steak pie hot from the oven is an excellent way to enjoy its comforting flavors. With its golden crust and hearty filling, it is perfect for sharing with loved ones during a cozy meal.

Tips For Variations:

While the Really Easy Steak Pie is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or make use of what you have on hand. Here are some unique variations to consider:

• For a different protein, you could substitute the stewing beef with diced lamb or chicken. Each will bring its own flavor profile and texture, creating a unique twist on the classic pie.
• If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. This will add a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with different vegetables by adding peas, corn, or even mushrooms to the filling. These can enhance the texture and provide additional layers of flavor.
• For a richer gravy, incorporate a tablespoon of tomato paste or a splash of vegetable stock, which can deepen the overall taste of the pie.
• If you prefer a puff pastry crust, you can swap the shortcrust for ready-made puff pastry, which will create a lighter and flakier top. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as puff pastry may cook faster.
• To make the dish more budget-friendly, consider using less expensive cuts of beef, such as chuck roast, which become tender when slow-cooked. This keeps the recipe economical without sacrificing flavor.
• For an even heartier filling, you can add a layer of mashed potatoes on top of the beef filling before covering it with pastry. This will create a comforting shepherd’s pie-style dish.
• Incorporating fresh herbs such as parsley or rosemary can elevate the flavor of your filling. Simply chop and mix them in just before placing the filling in the pie dish.

These variations not only allow you to customize the dish to your preferences but also make it easy to adapt based on what you have available in your pantry. Get creative and make this steak pie your own!

Serving Suggestions:

When it comes to serving the Really Easy Steak Pie, there are plenty of ways to present it that will enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative suggestions:

• Serve the pie with a side of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. The smoothness of these sides complements the hearty filling perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Pair the pie with steamed green vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or peas. The freshness of the vegetables provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the pie and adds a pop of color to the plate.
• For a traditional touch, consider serving the pie with a side of gravy for dipping. This allows diners to enhance their slices with extra flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Offer a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This will add freshness and help balance the richness of the pie.
• If you want to elevate the presentation, consider serving individual portions of the pie in ramekins. This can create a charming, rustic feel and makes it easy for guests to enjoy.
• For a truly comforting meal, serve the pie with a side of crusty bread. This allows everyone to scoop up the delicious filling and gravy, enhancing the overall experience.
• Finish off the meal with a classic dessert, such as apple pie or chocolate cake, to round out your dinner in a delightful way. This creates a complete dining experience that guests will remember.

With these serving suggestions, you can create a delightful dining experience that showcases the Really Easy Steak Pie as the star of the meal. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone satisfied and eager for the next serving.

FAQ:

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and assemble the pie just before baking to ensure a fresh and flaky crust.

What can I use instead of beef broth?

If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover steak pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Can I freeze the steak pie?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.

What sides go well with steak pie?

Steak pie pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the richness of the pie and create a balanced meal.