The perfect blend of buttery, flaky pastry and a rich, savory beef filling, these Mini Beef Party Pies are a must-have for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing snacks for a game night, or just craving a warm, comforting bite, these little pockets of goodness are sure to impress.
Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they’re also versatile – serve them with a side of dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a delicious treat, these mini beef pies will be a crowd favorite in no time!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to thicken. Simmer for 5 minutes, then let it cool slightly.
- Roll out puff pastry and cut into circles to fit the muffin tin. Press pastry into the tin to form a base.
- Spoon the beef mixture into each pastry case, filling just below the top. Cover with another layer of pastry, pressing edges to seal.
- Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and flaky.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before removing from the tin. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 12 mini pies
Mini Beef Party Pies: A Delicious Bite-Sized Classic
Mini Beef Party Pies are a classic Australian and British-inspired savory treat, perfect for gatherings, snacking, or serving as appetizers. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a rich and flavorful beef mixture, making them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
Origins of Mini Beef Pies
Mini beef pies have roots in traditional meat pies, a beloved dish in Australia, the UK, and other parts of the world. Meat pies were first introduced in medieval times, where they were made with thick crusts to preserve the filling. Over time, they evolved into smaller, bite-sized versions that became popular at parties, sporting events, and bakeries. In Australia, they are often enjoyed with tomato sauce (ketchup) and are a staple at football games, bakeries, and family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Perfect Party Snack – These mini beef pies are the ultimate finger food, ideal for parties, potlucks, or game nights.
✔ Crispy, Buttery Pastry – The golden, flaky puff pastry encases a rich, savory beef filling that’s seasoned to perfection.
✔ Make Ahead & Freeze Friendly – You can prepare these in advance and freeze them for later, making them perfect for meal prep.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – While beef is a classic filling, you can tweak the recipe by adding vegetables, cheese, or even switching up the protein.
Tips for Making the Best Mini Beef Party Pies
- Use Quality Puff Pastry – Store-bought puff pastry works great, but ensure it’s a good-quality, buttery variety for the best texture.
- Cool the Filling Before Assembling – A hot filling can make the pastry soggy. Let the beef mixture cool slightly before spooning it into the pastry.
- Seal the Edges Well – Press the pastry edges together firmly to prevent the filling from leaking while baking.
- Add a Flavor Boost – Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth create a deep, rich flavor in the filling. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika.
- Brush with Egg Wash for Golden Perfection – This helps the pies achieve a beautiful golden brown color and a crispy top.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce – Tomato sauce (ketchup), BBQ sauce, or even a mustard-based sauce pairs wonderfully with these mini pies.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Beef Pies: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the filling for extra richness.
- Spicy Mini Pies: Stir in a teaspoon of chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Vegetable-Loaded Pies: Mix in finely chopped carrots, mushrooms, or peas to the beef filling for added texture and flavor.
- Chicken Party Pies: Swap out beef for shredded rotisserie chicken and use a creamy sauce instead of beef broth.
Serving Suggestions
These Mini Beef Party Pies pair well with:
✔ Dipping sauces like tomato ketchup, BBQ sauce, or garlic aioli
✔ A fresh side salad for a lighter contrast
✔ Mashed potatoes or fries for a heartier meal
✔ A cold beer or soda for the ultimate game-day snack
Mini Beef Party Pies are a comforting, easy-to-make recipe that will have your guests coming back for more. Whether for a party, lunchbox, or casual dinner, these little pockets of goodness are guaranteed to be a hit!
What Makes These Mini Beef Pies Special?
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a game-night snack, or looking for a lunchbox filler, these mini pies are always a hit.
✔ Golden, Buttery Pastry – The puff pastry bakes into a crispy, flaky crust that encases the rich beef filling.
✔ Easy to Customize – You can add different seasonings, swap out the beef for another protein, or include vegetables for added texture.
✔ Great for Freezing – Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for a quick and delicious snack anytime.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mini Beef Party Pies
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté finely chopped onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and seasonings to create a rich and flavorful filling.
- Sprinkle in a bit of flour to help thicken the mixture, then let it simmer until well combined.
2. Assemble the Pies
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut circles slightly larger than your muffin tin molds.
- Press the pastry circles into the greased muffin tin, leaving a bit of overhang for sealing.
- Spoon the cooled beef mixture into each pastry shell, filling it about three-quarters full.
- Place another layer of pastry on top, sealing the edges with a fork.
3. Bake to Perfection
- Brush the tops with an egg wash for a golden finish and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Store and Reheat Mini Beef Pies
Refrigerate: Store leftover pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Arrange cooled pies in a single layer on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may make the pastry soft instead of crispy.
Conclusion
Mini Beef Party Pies are a must-try recipe that combines the comfort of a homemade beef filling with the irresistible crunch of golden puff pastry. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or as a quick meal prep idea, they’re sure to be a favorite among family and friends.