Why You’ll Love This Steak and Guinness Pie Recipe
If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s both hearty and comforting, you’ll adore this Steak and Guinness Pie recipe. It combines tender beef with rich flavors from Guinness and wine, creating a savory filling that’s hard to resist.
The aroma wafting through your kitchen while it simmers is simply irresistible. When topped with golden, flaky puff pastry, it becomes a visual delight as well.
This pie is perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings, satisfying your hunger and warming your soul. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this dish has a special place in my heart.
Ingredients of Steak and Guinness Pie
When it comes to making a delicious Steak and Guinness Pie, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and that rich Guinness flavor creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Plus, let’s not forget about the puff pastry that adds the perfect flaky touch. This pie isn’t just food; it’s an experience, a little slice of comfort that brings people together. Ready to gather your ingredients? Let’s jump in.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting delight:
- 1 1/4 lbs beef chuck, trimmed and cut into one-inch cubes (or lean stewing beef)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 5 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried herbes de Provence (or an equivalent mixture of herbs)
- 1 cup Guinness extra stout beer
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 15 ounces beef broth
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen
Now, a few things to keep in mind while you’re gathering these ingredients. First, don’t skimp on the quality of the beef; a good chuck roast will give you that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
And for the beer, a rich stout like Guinness adds depth to the flavor, but if you have a favorite alternative, feel free to experiment.
Oh, and those veggies? They’re not just there for show; they add excellent flavor and texture to the filling. So, make sure to slice them nicely.
How to Make Steak and Guinness Pie
Making a delicious Steak and Guinness Pie is a labor of love, but trust me, the end result is so worth it. First things first, grab your 1 1/4 lbs of beef chuck (or lean stewing beef if you’re feeling fancy) and trim it down into one-inch cubes.
Now, heat up 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. When that oil is shimmering and ready, toss in your beef and sear it until it’s beautifully browned on all sides. I mean, we’re talking about a nice caramelization here, folks—don’t rush it.
After the beef is looking like a million bucks, add in a large chopped onion, 8 ounces of sliced baby bella mushrooms, and 3 to 4 sliced carrots. Reduce the heat to medium and let those veggies mingle until the onion turns translucent and the mushrooms are tender. It’s like a little flavor party happening in your pot.
Next up, let’s get aromatic. Toss in 5 finely chopped garlic cloves and let them dance around for about a minute. Then, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon of dried herbes de Provence. Oh, the smell is going to be heavenly—just wait.
Now, pour in 1 cup of Guinness extra stout beer, 1 cup of dry red wine, and 15 ounces of beef broth. Give it a good stir, cover it up, and let it simmer on low heat for about an hour to an hour and a half. This is when the magic happens, and your kitchen will start smelling like a cozy pub. You want that meat to be tender, so don’t rush this step. If it needs a bit more flavor, don’t hesitate to simmer it uncovered for a little while longer.
Once the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, it’s thickening time. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 1 tablespoon of softened butter to form a ball. Stir that into your stew to thicken it up. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and if you want to save it for later, cool it down and pop it in the fridge.
If you’re ready to feast, spoon your filling into a casserole dish, cover it with a thawed sheet of puff pastry, and give it a nice brush with milk or a beaten egg for that golden color.
Now, it’s showtime! Bake it in the preheated oven at 400°F until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. And just like that, you’ve created a comforting masterpiece that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
Steak and Guinness Pie Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basic Steak and Guinness Pie recipe, it’s fun to explore different substitutions and variations that can add your own twist to this classic dish.
For instance, you might swap the beef for lamb or chicken for a lighter flavor. If you’re avoiding alcohol, try using beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar instead of Guinness.
Want a veggie version? Substitute mushrooms and lentils for the meat. You can also experiment with different herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to elevate the taste.
The possibilities are endless, so go ahead and get creative!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Steak and Guinness Pie turns out perfectly, I recommend taking the time to properly sear the beef; this step adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve otherwise.
Don’t rush the simmering process; letting the stew cook longer enhances the richness. If you’re short on time, consider using pre-made beef stock for convenience, but homemade always tastes best.
When working with puff pastry, I like to brush it with an egg wash for that golden finish.
Finally, pair your pie with some steamed peas or creamy mashed potatoes to complete the meal. Enjoy!