The best mince and cheese pie recipe is a tasty and family-friendly dinner for Christmas.
Made up savory beef mince, crunchy flaky pastry with a few herbs, and melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Honestly, it’s a superb crispy and cheesy match! The old fashioned mince beef pie will definitely be your new favorite recipe.
How To Choose The Best Beef Meat And Cheese For Your Mince And Cheese Pie?
To make a delicious homemade mince and cheese pie, you need to choose the right beef meat and cheese. Here are some tips to help you:
Choosing The Best Beef Meat
For a flavorful pie, choose beef mince that has an outstanding balance of fat and lean meat. The fat content should be around 20-25% to keep the meat moist and tender.
You can use beef chuck, sirloin, or brisket for your mince pie filling. These cuts have a good balance of fat and lean meat and are perfect for slow cooking.
Ground chuck is a bit fattier, which will give your pie flavor and juiciness, while ground sirloin is leaner, which will help to prevent your pie from becoming too greasy.
If you are looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken. However, keep in mind that these meats are not as flavorful as beef, so you may need to add additional seasonings to your pie filling.
Choosing The Best Cheese
The best cheese for the mince and cheese pie is one that is sharp and melty. A good option is to use a combination of cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
Cheddar cheese is a sharp cheese that will give your pie a classic flavor, while mozzarella cheese is a melty cheese that will give your pie a gooey, delicious texture.
Other great options for cheese include Monterey Jack cheese, Gruyère cheese, and Parmesan cheese. You can also experiment with diverse kinds of cheese to find your favorite combination.
Best Mince And Cheese Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 sheets frozen butter puff pastry
- 1lb / 500g ground beef / beef mince
- ⅓ cup / 40g flour
- 2 cups / 500ml beef stock
- 3 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oil
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Beef Mince Pie Filling Recipe
- Take a frying pan and place it on medium heat. Add garlic and oil to the frypan while it’s warming up and cook for a few minutes.
- Add the beef to the pan and set the heat to high. With the help of a wooden spatula, break the mince and stir frequently until it becomes brown.
- Set the heat to low and add the soy sauce, mustard, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce and stir to mix.
- Dust the flour over the beef and cook for a few minutes while stirring. The mixture will become a little thick and stodgy, but this is fine.
- Add half of the beef stock into the frying pan slowly and mix. Immediately the beef mixture must start to thicken up. Once mixed, pour in the remaining half.
- Set the heat to low and stew the beef mince filling until thickened for about 30 minutes to an hour, stirring infrequently.
- Fully cool the mixture before filling in the homemade mince and cheese pie for best results.
- Take out the frozen puff pastry sheets and defrost at room temperature when you are ready to make the easy mince pie recipe.
- To fit the sheets in your pie pans, roll the sheets a little thin and cut 4 rounds of every sheet. In the pie pans, place the pastry and put the beef mince filling into them.
- Top the pies with shredded Mozzarella and Cheddar cheese and top with the second round of pastry.
- To seal the filing in pies, fold the overhang of pastry from the bottom over the crest.
- Prick steam holes into the crest of every mince cheese pie recipe to escape the steam. Keep in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking to chill.
- Preheat the oven at 200°C and place the minced beef and cheese pie in the oven and bake until the pies are golden brown and cooked through for about 20-25 minutes.
- Let the best mince and cheese pie recipe cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for 4 days.
How To Prevent Your Home Made Mince And Cheese Pie From Becoming Soggy?
Nothing beats a delicious mince and cheese pie, but there’s nothing worse than taking a bite and finding that the bottom crust is soggy.
Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to prevent this from happening.
1. Blind Bake The Pastry Case
Blind baking is a method where you partially bake the pastry case prior to adding the filling.
This helps to create a barrier between the filling and the pastry, which prevents the filling from making the pastry soggy.
To blind-bake a pastry case, roll out the pastry and fit it into a pie dish. Prick the pastry’s bottom with a fork and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until the pastry is lightly golden brown.
2. Choose The Right Cheese
Cheese can release moisture when heated, which can make the pie filling watery and cause the crust to become soggy.
To prevent this, choose a cheese that melts well but doesn’t release too much moisture, such as cheddar or Colby.
3. Don’t Overfill The Pie
If you overfill the pie, the filling will start to leak out and make the pastry soggy.
Leave enough space around the pie’s edges for the filling to bubble up.
4. Add A Layer Of Breadcrumbs
Sprinkling a layer of breadcrumbs on the bottom of the pie case before adding the filling can help absorb any excess moisture.
This is especially helpful if you are using a watery filling, such as a mince filling.
5. Use A Metal Pie Pan
Metal pie pans conduct heat better than glass or ceramic pans, which can assist in crisping up the crust’s bottom.
How To Reheat The Best Mince And Cheese Pie Recipe Without Making It Tough?
Mince and cheese pies are tasty and hearty comfort food, but they can be tricky to reheat without making the pastry tough and the filling dry. Here are a few tips to reheat it:
- Choose Your Reheating Method Carefully:The microwave is the quickest way to reheat a pie, but it can also make the pastry rubbery and the filling overcooked. The oven is a better choice for reheating pies evenly and without drying them out.
- Add A Little Moisture:If you’re reheating a pie in the oven, add a splash of water or gravy to the dish’s bottom to help keep the pastry moist. Before baking, you can also brush the pastry’s top with milk or cream.
- Preheat Your Oven To A Low Temperature:Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the pie for 15-20 minutes, or until it is heated. If you’re reheating a frozen pie, it may take a few minutes longer.
- Use Aluminum Foil To Prevent The Pastry From Burning:If you’re worried about the pastry burning, tent the pie with aluminum foil for the first 10-15 minutes of baking. Then, remove the foil and bake until the pastry is golden brown.
- Let The Pie Rest Before Slicing:Once the pie is heated, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the pastry set and prevent it from crumbling.
Different Variations Of Mince And Cheese Pies
While the traditional minced beef pie recipe is mouthwatering, there are many different variations that you can try to add your own unique spin to this classic dish.
Here are a few ideas for different variations of beef mince and cheese pie:
1. Steak And Cheese Pie
This variation is made with steak instead of ground beef. The steak is typically cut into thin slices and then cooked until tender.
This variation is a bit more expensive than the traditional beef mince and cheese pie, but it is well worth the extra cost.
2. Chicken And Cheese Pie
This variation is made with chicken instead of ground beef. The chicken is typically cooked and then shredded before it is added to the pie filling.
This variation is an excellent option for people looking for a lighter and healthier alternative to the traditional beef mince pie recipe puff pastry.
3. Lamb And Cheese Pie
This variation is made with lamb instead of ground beef. The lamb is typically cooked and then minced before it is added to the pie filling.
This variation has a more unique flavor than the traditional beef mince and cheese pie, and it is sure to impress your guests.
4. Vegetable And Cheese Pie
This variation is made with vegetables instead of ground beef. The vegetables are usually cooked and then chopped before they are added to the pie filling.
This variation is perfect for folks seeking a vegetarian or vegan alternative to the traditional homemade mince pies.
5. Curried Mince And Cheese Pie
This variation is made with the addition of curry powder, garam masala, and other Indian spices. It is a good option for those who enjoy Indian cuisine.
You can also get creative with the type of cheese that you use in your mince and cheese pie.
Some popular options include cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. You can also use a mix of different cheeses to create a more complex flavor.
Another way to vary your pie is to add different toppings. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce.
You can add other toppings, such as bacon, mushrooms, or onions.
Serving Suggestions For Old-Fashioned Mince Beef Pie
Beef mince cheese pie is a versatile dish that can be served in numerous different ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
1. As A Main Course
Beef mince and cheese pie is a hearty and satisfying meal that can be served independently. Cut the pie into wedges and serve with your favorite sides.
Some popular side dishes for beef mince and cheese pie include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a simple salad.
2. As A Snack Or Appetizer
You can cut beef mince and cheese pie into smaller pieces and serve as a snack or appetizer. This is an excellent option for parties or potlucks.
3. In A Sandwich Or Wrap
Try filling a sandwich or wrap with beef mince and cheese pie for a quick and easy lunch.
You can add other toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, or enjoy the pie on its own.
4. With A Side Of Soup
The easy mince and cheese pie recipe is also an excellent pairing for soup. Serve a bowl of your favorite soup with a wedge of pie for a complete meal.
5. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for old fashioned mince beef pie. They are soft and creamy, and they help to soak up all of the delicious gravy from the pie.
6. Veggies
Beef mince and cheese pie is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies. Serve it with a side of roasted or steamed veggies, like carrots or green beans.
7. Salad
If you want a lighter meal, serve beef mince and cheese pie with a side salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is the perfect accompaniment.
8. Gravy
Beef mince and cheese pie is often served with gravy. You can make your own gravy utilizing the pan drippings from the pie, or you can use a store-bought gravy.
9. Condiments
Beef mince and cheese pie is also delicious with a variety of condiments. Some popular choices include ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce.
Troubleshooting Tips For Making Beef Mince And Cheese Pie
Beef mince and cheese pie is a comfort food loved by individuals of all ages.
It is also a relatively easy pie to make, but there are a few things that can go wrong if you are not careful.
Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you make the perfect beef mince and cheese pie every time:
Problem: The pastry is tough or chewy.
Solution: Overworking the pastry will make it tough. Be careful not to overhandle it when rolling it out. You can also try using a different type of pastry, such as shortcrust pastry instead of puff pastry.
Problem: The filling is too runny.
Solution: Make sure to cook the mince until it is browned and all of the liquid has evaporated. You can also incorporate a thickening agent, such as flour or cornstarch, into the filling.
Problem: The pie leaks.
Solution: Make sure to seal the edges of the pastry well before baking. You can also try brushing the pie’s top with a beaten egg before baking to help create a seal.
Problem: The pie is dry.
Solution: Add enough moisture to the filling, such as beef stock or gravy. You can incorporate some grated cheese into the filling to make it more moist and creamy.
Problem: The pie is not browned evenly.
Solution: Place the pie in the oven’s center and cook it at the correct temperature. You may also need to rotate the pie halfway through baking.
How To Store Leftover Beef Mince And Cheese Pie?
Properly storing the leftover best beef mince and cheese pie recipe is essential to maintain its quality and safety. Here’s how to store it:
- Cool Down Quickly:Allow the leftover pie to cool down to room temperature on the counter for 1-2 hours. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container.
- Refrigerate:If you plan to consume the leftovers within a few days, you can store the pie in the refrigerator. Put it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate promptly.
- Freeze For Longer Storage:If you want to store it for a more extended period, freezing is a better option. Put it in an airtight container suitable for freezing.
- Label And Date:Whether refrigerating or freezing, always label the container with the contents and date. This helps you keep track of how long it’s been stored.
- Thawing Frozen Pie:When ready to eat a frozen pie, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture of the pie.
- Reheating:Reheat the leftover pie in the oven for the best results. Preheat the oven to around 175°C and bake until the pie is heated. This ensures that the crust remains crispy and the filling is thoroughly reheated.
Note: While the pie can be reheated in the microwave, remember that the crust may become soft instead of staying crisp.
Always use safe food handling practices and follow storage guidelines to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Freeze The Pies?
Yes, you can freeze beef mince and cheese pies. To do this, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped pies in a freezer bag. Make sure to label it with the date and contents. Frozen beef mince and cheese pies can be stored for up to 3 months.
2. Why Do The Fillings Have To Be Cold?
The fillings have to be cold to prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy. When the fillings are cold, they will not release as much moisture as they would if they were warm.
3. Why My Pies Exploded In The Oven?
Pies can explode in the oven for a few reasons. One reason is that they were not properly vented. Venting allows steam to escape from the pie, which prevents it from building up and causing the pie to explode.
Another reason why they can explode in the oven is that the fillings were too hot. When the fillings are too hot, they will expand rapidly in the oven and cause the pie to burst.
4. Why Are My Mince Pies Hard?
Mince pies can become hard if they are overcooked. To prevent them from becoming hard, check on them frequently while baking and remove them from the oven as soon as they are golden brown. Another reason could be that you overworked the pastry dough, causing it to become tough. Try not to handle the dough too much and avoid over-kneading it.
5. What Is The Difference Between A Scotch Pie And A Mince Pie?
A Scotch pie is a small, double-crust meat pie that originated in Scotland. It is typically made with mutton or lamb and has a hot water crust pastry shell.
A mince pie, on the other hand, is a sweet or savory pie filled with minced meat and other ingredients such as vegetables or fruit.
6. How Do You Keep The Bottom Of Mince Pies From Getting Soggy?
To keep the bottom of your mince pies from getting soggy, try brushing them with beaten egg before adding the filling. This will generate a barrier between the filling and the pastry, preventing it from becoming soggy.
7. What Is The Secret To Crispy Bottom Pie Crust?
The secret to a crispy bottom pie crust is blind baking it before adding the filling. This means baking the pastry shell without filling until partially cooked and lightly golden brown.
8. Should I Bake The Bottom Pie Crust First?
Yes, you can bake the bottom pie crust first before adding any filling. This will guarantee that it cooks evenly and doesn’t become soggy when you add the filling.
