This Savory Meat and Veggie Pie is a comforting and hearty dish featuring a flaky puff pastry crust encasing a savory filling made with ground meat, vegetables, and cheese. The combination of savory beef or pork, alongside the richness of vegetables like onions, carrots, and bell peppers, creates a flavorful filling. The puff pastry bakes to golden perfection, giving the pie a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, special occasions, or as a savory snack.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
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Total Time: 55 minutes
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Yield: 6 servings
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Cuisine: Comfort Food, European
Full List of Ingredients
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For the Filling:
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500g ground meat (beef, pork, or a mixture)
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1 onion, finely chopped
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1 carrot, finely grated
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1 bell pepper, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 cup peas (optional)
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1/2 cup grated cheese (Parmesan, mozzarella, or your choice)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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For the Puff Pastry:
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1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
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1 egg (for egg wash)
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1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
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For the Creamy Sauce (optional):
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons flour
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1 cup milk
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the grated carrot and chopped bell pepper to the pan and cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Add the ground meat to the pan and cook for about 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it is browned and fully cooked. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. If desired, add peas for extra texture and flavor. Once the meat is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the grated cheese for added creaminess. Set the filling aside.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry sheet. Make sure it’s large enough to cover the bottom and sides of your pie dish. Gently place the pastry in a pie dish or tart pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess dough.
3. Fill the Pie:
Once the filling has cooled slightly, spoon it into the center of the puff pastry-lined dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring that the filling is distributed across the bottom of the pastry.
4. Top the Pie:
Roll out a second sheet of puff pastry to cover the pie. Place it over the filling and press down the edges to seal the pie. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative look. Cut a few slits in the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.
5. Brush with Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to make an egg wash. Brush the top of the pie with the egg wash to give it a golden, glossy finish once baked.
6. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on the pie towards the end to make sure the crust doesn’t burn.
7. Serve:
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. If you prefer, you can drizzle the pie with a creamy sauce. To make the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, stir in the flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk and whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until thickened. Pour the sauce over the pie slices for extra richness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 350 kcal
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Fat: 22g
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Saturated Fat: 8g
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 5g
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Protein: 14g
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Sodium: 450mg
Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The idea of meat pies has been around for centuries and is popular in many cultures, especially in European cuisines. This Savory Meat and Veggie Pie draws inspiration from classic English meat pies and French savory pastries. The puff pastry shell is a luxurious addition, making this dish not only filling but also elegant enough for special occasions. While variations of savory pies are made across the world, this recipe uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful and comforting meal.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Flaky and Crispy Crust: The puff pastry crust is incredibly flaky, giving each bite a satisfying crunch.
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Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground meat, vegetables, and cheese creates a rich, savory filling that is both satisfying and comforting.
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Versatile: This pie can be customized with different vegetables and cheeses, making it adaptable to your preferences.
Health Benefits
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Lean Meat: Ground meat (whether beef, chicken, or turkey) provides a good source of protein, iron, and zinc, important for muscle growth and immune health.
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Vegetables: The carrots and bell peppers add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to the filling, enhancing the dish’s nutritional value.
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Cheese: The cheese offers calcium, protein, and essential fatty acids, contributing to bone health and overall well-being.
Serving Suggestions
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With a Side Salad: Pair this pie with a light salad of mixed greens and vinaigrette to balance the richness of the filling.
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As a Main Course: Serve the pie on its own with a dollop of creamy sauce or a side of mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
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With Gravy: For a classic touch, serve the pie with brown gravy or a creamy mushroom sauce for added richness.
Cooking Tips
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Chill the Dough: If using homemade puff pastry, make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out for a better texture.
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Let the Filling Cool: Let the filling cool slightly before adding it to the pie to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
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Check the Pie: Keep an eye on the pie during baking to ensure the crust doesn’t get too brown.
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian Version: Swap out the meat for lentils, mushrooms, or a combination of beans for a hearty vegetarian pie.
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Spicy Version: Add a few chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
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Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or Gruyère for different flavors.
Conclusion
This Savory Meat and Veggie Pie is an irresistible dish that brings comfort and flavor together in every bite. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pie is sure to impress with its flaky crust, savory filling, and creamy topping. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s a perfect addition to any meal rotation.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, using store-bought puff pastry will save time and still yield delicious results.
2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or pork instead of beef for a lighter version.
3. Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie either before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it well and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
4. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake it before serving.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
6. Can I make the crust from scratch?
Yes, you can make homemade pie crust if you prefer. Just use a standard recipe for pie dough.
7. Can I use non-dairy cheese?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese if you prefer a vegan or lactose-free version.
8. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free puff pastry and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free alternative.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
10. What other fillings can I use?
You can fill the pie with various combinations of vegetables, meats, or cheeses. Try using cooked chicken, sausage, or even seafood for a different twist.