Classic New Zealand Meat Pie

A Classic New Zealand Meat Pie is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring a golden, flaky crust filled with a rich, seasoned beef gravy. These hand-held pies are a staple in New Zealand cuisine, enjoyed as a comforting meal or a satisfying snack. Whether served with tomato sauce or paired with vegetables, they are the ultimate savory treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic New Zealand flavor – A classic meat pie with traditional seasonings and textures.
• Easy to make – Uses store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
• Rich and hearty – The savory beef filling is thick, flavorful, and satisfying.
• Perfect for meal prep – Make ahead and freeze for quick meals.
• Versatile – Can be customized with different meats or seasonings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pie Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or minced steak
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

For the Pastry:

• 1 package (2 sheets) store-bought puff pastry (or homemade shortcrust pastry)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions

Prepare the Filling:

1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the meat, then cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir until combined.
5. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Pies:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into circles to fit a muffin tin or small pie tins. Line each tin with pastry, pressing gently to fit.
3. Spoon cooled meat filling into each pie base.
4. Cover with another pastry circle, sealing the edges with a fork or by pinching.
5. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden crust.

Bake & Serve:

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
2. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with tomato sauce or a side of vegetables!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 mini pies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: 320 kcal per pie

Variations

• Cheese & Beef Pie – Add grated cheese to the meat filling for extra richness.
• Chicken Variation – Swap beef for diced chicken and use chicken broth instead.
• Vegetarian Option – Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat for a plant-based alternative.
• Spicy Kick – Add chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy version.
• Shortcrust Pastry – Use homemade or store-bought shortcrust pastry for a denser, buttery crust.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Freeze unbaked or baked pies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking or reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make these pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pies and refrigerate them before baking, or freeze them for later use.

2. What’s the best pastry to use?

Puff pastry creates a light, flaky crust, while shortcrust pastry gives a firmer, buttery texture.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, minced lamb, chicken, or even pork can be used instead of beef.

4. How do I prevent the filling from being too runny?

Let the meat filling simmer until thickened, and allow it to cool before filling the pastry.

5. Can I make these pies in a larger size?

Yes, you can use a larger pie dish instead of making mini pies—just adjust the baking time accordingly.

6. What’s the best way to seal the pastry?

Press the edges together with a fork or pinch them tightly to prevent leaks.

7. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms make great additions to the filling.

8. How do I get a golden crust?

Brushing the pastry with beaten egg before baking gives it a golden, glossy finish.

9. What can I serve with meat pies?

These pies pair well with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or steamed vegetables.

10. Can I air-fry these pies?

Yes, cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-18 minutes, checking for doneness halfway through.

Conclusion

Classic New Zealand Meat Pies are a comforting and satisfying dish, featuring a rich, savory filling encased in a golden, flaky crust. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or a full meal, they bring the flavors of New Zealand straight to your kitchen. With easy variations and storage options, they are a must-try recipe for meat pie lovers!