Easy Mini Meat Pies

A Comforting Start

My Favorite is Mini Meat Pies and When I first discovered the joy of mini meat pies, it was a chilly winter evening, and my kitchen was bustling with the warmth of the oven and the smell of comfort food. I was looking for a dish that would bring a sense of coziness and satisfaction to my family, and these mini meat pies were perfect. As I rolled out the pie dough and cut it into small rounds, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It reminded me of the pies my grandmother used to make, filling the house with a delicious aroma that made you feel like you were wrapped in a warm hug.

Filling the Crusts

Once the crusts were in the oven, I turned my attention to the savory filling. Sautéing onions, carrots, and garlic in olive oil was like opening a book of familiar flavors. The smell was irresistible, and as the beef browned and mixed with the vegetables, I couldn’t help but taste a little bit. The peas and corn added a pop of color and sweetness, making the mixture even more appetizing. Adding the butter and flour to thicken the sauce made the filling rich and hearty—just what I had in mind.

The Topping Twist

With the pie crusts baked and golden, it was time to add the finishing touches. I spooned the beef mixture into each crust and topped it with a generous layer of creamy mashed potatoes. Placing them under the broiler was like giving them a final, golden crown. The smell of the crispy potato topping was mouthwatering. It was always a thrill to watch the pies transform from simple ingredients into golden, delightful treats.

A Family Favorite

When I finally served the mini meat pies, my family gathered around the table with eager smiles. Each pie was a little masterpiece of comfort, with the buttery crust and savory filling complemented by the creamy mashed potatoes. They disappeared quickly, leaving only happy faces and empty plates. I knew I had created a new family favorite. These mini meat pies weren’t just a meal; they were a warm reminder of home and happiness, wrapped up in a simple, delicious package.

Chef’s Notes-Mini Meat Pies

• For added depth of flavor, consider mixing a splash of Worcestershire sauce into the beef mixture. You can also experiment with a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of paprika for some extra zing.
• If you’re a fan of cheesy comfort food, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before broiling. This will give your pies a delicious, golden-brown crust.
• For a smoother mashed potato topping, ensure the potatoes are well-mashed and creamy. If they’re too thick, you can add a bit of milk or cream to achieve a smoother consistency.
• Make sure the pie crusts are well-floured to prevent sticking. If you have trouble with the dough sticking, chill it slightly before cutting out the rounds.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the beef mixture.
• These mini meat pies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Mini Meat Pies

Course: Main Course, SnackCuisine: American, BritishDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

pies

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Total time

50

minutes

Get ready to wow your family with these delightful Mini Meat Pies! Perfectly portioned and packed with savory ground beef, veggies, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, these little pies are a hit for any meal. Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear, they’re a must-try for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Inspired by classic comfort food, these mini pies bring a modern twist that’s both fun and delicious.

Ingredients

• Cooking spray for greasing muffin tin

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting

• 2 pounds refrigerated pie dough sheets

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 large onion finely chopped

• 2 medium carrots peeled and diced

• 2 cloves garlic minced

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 cup frozen green peas

• 1 cup canned or frozen corn kernels

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef stock

• 1 1/2 cups ready-made mashed potatoes

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

• Cook Vegetables & Beef – While the crusts bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic; cook until softened for about 5 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5 more minutes. Drain any excess fat.
• Assemble & Broil – Fill each baked pie crust with the beef mixture and top with a generous spoonful of mashed potatoes. Place under the broiler for about 5 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
• Garnish & Serve – Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• muffin tin
• nonstick pan
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 350kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Potassium: 350mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Vitamin A: 60IU
• Vitamin C: 15mg
• Calcium: 6mg
• Iron: 15mg

FAQ-Mini Meat Pies

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. If using leaner meats, you may need to adjust the cooking time or add a bit more oil to prevent the filling from being too dry.

Can I make these pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pies up to a day in advance. Assemble them and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake or broil them until the tops are golden brown.

How can I make these pies gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pie crust instead of the regular pie dough. Make sure the beef broth and any other ingredients you use are gluten-free.

Can I freeze these mini pies?

Yes, you can freeze them! After assembling and cooling, wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375ºF for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

What can I serve with mini meat pies?

These pies pair well with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple fruit compote. They also make great additions to a buffet or party spread.