Beef and Vegetable Pasties Recipes for Easy Homemade Meals

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines the rich flavors of tender beef with the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables, then beef and vegetable pasties are the perfect choice. These handheld pastries are a classic British favorite, loved for their flaky crust and savory filling.

Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a picnic, or just a cozy night in, these pasties bring warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—perfect for using up whatever veggies you have on hand, and the beef adds a satisfying protein punch that keeps you full and happy.

Making beef and vegetable pasties from scratch might sound intimidating, but with this detailed recipe, you’ll find the process straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll learn how to create a delicious filling bursting with flavor, how to achieve a golden, crisp pastry, and some handy tips to customize your pasties just the way you like them.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and bake some deliciousness? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef and vegetable pasties recipe is a wonderful combination of classic comfort food and practical home cooking. Here’s why it stands out:

• Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with lean beef and a medley of fresh vegetables, these pasties offer a balanced meal in a portable form.
• Flaky, Buttery Pastry: The golden crust is perfectly flaky and holds the filling beautifully without becoming soggy.
• Customizable Filling: You can easily swap vegetables depending on your pantry or season, making it a versatile recipe.
• Great for Meal Prep: These pasties can be made ahead of time and frozen—perfect for busy weeks.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild seasoning and familiar flavors make them a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• For the Pastry: 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 6-8 tbsp ice water
• For the Filling: 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or food processor (for pastry)
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Frying pan or skillet
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking it to keep the pastry flaky.
3. Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling.
4. Cook the Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
5. Add Vegetables & Seasoning: Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, peas, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
6. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 6-8 inch circles using a bowl or plate as a guide.
7. Assemble the Pasties: Place a generous spoonful of the cooled filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edge.
8. Seal the Edges: Brush the edges with a little water, fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, and press firmly to seal. Crimp the edges decoratively with a fork or by pinching.
9. Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pasties with beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.
10. Bake: Transfer the pasties to the lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
11. Cool & Serve: Allow the pasties to cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delicious warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“Using cold butter and minimal handling of the dough ensures a flaky, tender crust every time.”

• Make it Vegetarian: Swap the beef for a mix of mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas for a meatless version. Check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for more ideas.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika to the filling for a subtle kick. For a homemade blend, see our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
• Use Puff Pastry: For an ultra-flaky crust, use store-bought puff pastry instead of homemade dough—just be sure to seal edges well.
• Batch Cooking: Freeze assembled pasties before baking for an easy, ready-to-cook meal. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Vegetable Swaps: Try adding parsnips, sweet potatoes, or swede for a sweeter twist on the classic filling.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Beef and vegetable pasties are wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. They pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or some steamed seasonal vegetables for a lighter meal.

For colder days, try serving them alongside a bowl of hearty soup or stew to keep things cozy and comforting.

If you want to add a little extra flair, a dollop of tangy mustard or homemade chutney on the side can elevate the flavors. Leftover pasties make fantastic lunchbox treats or picnic snacks, enjoyed cold or reheated.

Conclusion

Making beef and vegetable pasties at home is a rewarding experience that brings together the best of savory flavors wrapped in a crispy, homemade pastry. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between classic taste and adaptable ingredients, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and pantry supplies.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, these pasties deliver comfort and satisfaction in every flaky bite.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or spices to make this recipe truly your own. And if you enjoy hearty, wholesome meals, be sure to explore more delicious options like our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals or try out our flavorful Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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