Hearty Meat and Potato Pie

This Hearty Meat and Potato Pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and peas, all wrapped in a golden, flaky puff pastry. The rich, flavorful filling is seasoned with paprika and beef broth to create a satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners. It’s a one-pan meal that comes together quickly, and the puff pastry adds a delightful crunch that complements the hearty filling. Ideal for a family dinner or casual gatherings, this pie is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 sheet puff pastry

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the cubed potatoes, beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are slightly tender.
4. Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Assemble Pie: Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into a pie dish. Cover with the sheet of puff pastry, pressing down around the edges to seal.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve: Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils. You can also add more vegetables like carrots, corn, or mushrooms to enhance the filling.
2. Cheesy Meat and Potato Pie: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella to the filling before covering it with puff pastry for a cheesy twist.
3. Spicy Version: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the filling mixture for some extra heat.
4. Puff Pastry Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use pie crust instead of puff pastry for a more traditional pie crust texture.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This pie can be frozen before baking. Assemble the pie, cover it with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if needed.
• Reheating: To reheat leftovers, cover the pie with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Assemble the pie with the puff pastry and bake when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use mashed potatoes instead of cubed potatoes?
   While cubed potatoes are best for this recipe, mashed potatoes could work in a pinch, though it will change the texture of the filling.
3. Can I make this without puff pastry?
   Yes, you can substitute puff pastry with a traditional pie crust or even biscuit dough for a different kind of topping.
4. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
   Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of this pie.
5. What should I serve with this pie?
   A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement this hearty pie perfectly.
6. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
   Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
7. How do I know when the pie is done baking?
   The pie is done when the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is bubbling hot.
8. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze leftover pie for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
9. How do I make the puff pastry more flaky?
   For an extra flaky crust, make sure to use cold puff pastry and avoid overworking it when covering the pie.
10. Can I substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth?
    Yes, vegetable broth can be used if you’re making a vegetarian version or want to reduce the meat flavor.

Conclusion

Hearty Meat and Potato Pie is a comforting and delicious meal that combines the richness of ground beef, tender potatoes, and peas, all encased in a crispy puff pastry shell. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, and the leftovers make for an easy and satisfying meal the next day. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this savory pie is sure to please everyone at the table. With endless variations and the option to freeze for later, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

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