What is the best beef cut for Guinness beef hand pies?

Chuck roast is generally considered the best beef cut for Guinness beef hand pies. It becomes incredibly tender and flavorful during the long braising process. Other cuts like brisket or short ribs can also work well.

What type of pastry is best for hand pies?

Shortcrust pastry is the classic choice for hand pies. Its buttery, flaky texture complements the savory filling perfectly. Puff pastry can also be used for a lighter, airier crust.

Can Guinness beef hand pies be made ahead of time?

Yes, Guinness beef hand pies can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the filling and assemble the pies a day or two in advance, storing them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You can also freeze them before baking for longer storage.

How do you prevent the bottom of hand pies from being soggy?

Several techniques can help prevent a soggy bottom: blind-baking the pastry briefly before adding the filling, using a baking sheet preheated in the oven, and ensuring the filling isn't too wet before assembling the pies.

What can I serve with Guinness beef hand pies?

Guinness beef hand pies pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (like carrots or parsnips), a green salad, or a side of creamy coleslaw.

Can I freeze Guinness beef hand pies?

Yes, Guinness beef hand pies freeze well. To freeze unbaked pies, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Baked pies can also be frozen and reheated.

Guinness Beef Hand Pies: Your Perfect On-the-Go Comfort Food 2026

Guinness Beef Hand Pies

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Transform leftover pot roast into a delicious new meal with these flaky, savory hand pies. A store-bought puff pastry shortcut makes them easy to prepare, perfect for a hearty snack, lunch, or dinner.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 25min
Cook Time: 25min
Total Time: 50min
Yield: 8 hand pies 1x
Category: dinner
Method: baking
Cuisine: Irish

Ingredients

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2 cups cooked, shredded beef (like leftover pot roast)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large carrot, finely diced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 cup Guinness stout (or dark beer/beef broth)
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 package (about 17 oz) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and carrot, cook 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cook 1 minute. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir 30 seconds.
Build the sauce: Slowly pour in Guinness, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 1 minute. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, and shredded beef. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered 10-15 minutes until thickened. Remove bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and set aside to cool completely.
Assemble: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out puff pastry and cut into 5-6 inch circles. Place 2-3 tablespoons cooled filling slightly off-center on each circle.
Seal and finish: Brush edges with egg wash. Fold dough over filling to create a half-moon. Press edges firmly, then crimp with a fork. Transfer to baking sheet. Cut 2-3 small slits in top of each pie. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with flaky salt if desired.
Bake: Bake 20-25 minutes, rotating pans halfway, until puffed and golden brown. Let cool on pan 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure filling is completely cool before assembling to prevent soggy pastry. Pies can be assembled and frozen unbaked; bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to baking time.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 380
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 450
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 6
Unsaturated Fat: 14
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 2
Protein: 15
Cholesterol: 60

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/guinness-beef-hand-pies/