This Beef and Guinness Pot Pie is a warm, comforting dish perfect for chilly nights! Tender beef is cooked in rich Guinness and topped with a flaky pastry that makes everything better.
It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love serving it with a side of veggies, and trust me, the smell while it bakes is simply irresistible. How can one resist homemade pie? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for slow cooking because it becomes tender as it simmers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use sirloin or round steak, but be aware they may not be as tender.
Guinness Stout: This adds a unique flavor. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, use beef broth or a dark non-alcoholic stout. Root beer can also give a sweet twist if you want to experiment!
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for sautéing, but you can use vegetable oil or butter too. Each will lend a slightly different flavor to your dish.
Frozen Peas: These add a pop of color and sweetness. If you don’t have peas, corn or chopped green beans are good alternatives. I often add a handful of both for a colorful mix!
Pie Crusts: Store-bought is convenient, but if you enjoy a homemade touch, feel free to make your own pastry. You can also use puff pastry for a flakier crust!
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor While Cooking the Beef?
Browning the beef properly is key for a rich flavor. This step adds depth to the dish, creating that hearty taste everyone loves.
- Heat the pot on medium-high before adding the beef.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; work in batches if necessary.
- Let the beef sear without moving it for about 2-3 minutes before flipping to get a nice brown crust.
- This process should take around 5-7 minutes for even browning.
Remember, that golden crust is packed with flavor! Let the beef caramelize gently, and you’ll enjoy a meal that feels truly comforting. Happy cooking!
How to Make Beef and Guinness Pot Pies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup Guinness stout
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1 hour and 10 minutes to cook, plus some additional time for baking. Overall, you should plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s mostly stovetop cooking, and the baking time will fill your kitchen with delicious aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for your pot pies when you’re done assembling them.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Let them brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and carrots. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
4. Add Flavorings:
Now, stir in the tomato paste along with the dried thyme and rosemary. Cook everything together for another 1-2 minutes, mixing until the ingredients are well combined.
5. Simmer the Filling:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and Guinness stout, followed by the Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is nice and tender.
6. Add the Peas:
After simmering, stir in the frozen peas and let everything cook for an additional 5 minutes. Taste your filling and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Once it’s seasoned to your liking, remove the pot from the heat and let the filling cool slightly.
7. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Take out your refrigerated pie crusts and roll them out on a clean surface. You’ll need one crust for the bottom of the pie and another for the top.
8. Assemble the Pies:
Divide the beef filling among individual pie dishes or pour it into a larger pie dish. Place the top crust over the filling, crimp the edges together to seal, and cut a few slits in the top crust to let steam escape during baking.
9. Apply the Egg Wash:
To give your pies a lovely golden color, brush the top of the crust with the beaten egg.
10. Bake the Pot Pies:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the pot pies in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the pot pies cool slightly. Then, serve them up warm and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal on its own or with your favorite side!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket or round. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed, especially if you choose leaner cuts, which may require a shorter simmering time to keep them tender.
Can I Substitute for the Guinness Stout?
Yes! If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, you can use beef broth or a mixture of beef broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity. For a different flavor profile, a dark beer like a porter or stout will work as well. Just remember that the taste will differ slightly depending on your substitution!
How Should I Store Leftover Pot Pies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but the crust may not stay as flaky.
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the beef filling a day in advance! Simply let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble the pies with the pre-made filling and bake as directed. This can save time and enhance the flavors!
