Name: Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Australian
Ingredients: 500g ground beef; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ cup frozen peas (optional); ½ cup grated cheese (optional); 12 sheets of pre-made puff pastry, thawed; 1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)

Jump to Recipe

There is something irresistibly comforting about Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies), a classic snack that brings people together with its rich, savory filling wrapped in buttery, flaky pastry. These bite-sized delights combine seasoned ground beef, a hint of herbs, and a touch of cheesy goodness, all encased in a golden crust that shatters with every bite. If you’re searching for a crowd-pleaser that works as a party appetizer or a hearty snack, these mini pies are the answer, delivering a taste of Aussie tradition that’s both nostalgic and utterly delicious.

Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the first step toward these delightful Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies). Each component plays a crucial role: the ground beef forms a savory base, while the puff pastry guarantees that satisfying crispiness that makes these pies unforgettable.

500g ground beef: Choose lean beef for juicy flavor without excess grease.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Helps sauté the onion and garlic to perfection.
1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth to the filling.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Provides richness and a subtle tang to balance the beef.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Infuses umami and a touch of complexity.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Enhances the meat’s savory notes with a salty punch.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers herbal earthiness that brightens the filling.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors alive.
12 sheets of pre-made puff pastry, thawed: Creates the flaky, golden shells every pie needs.
½ cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of sweetness and color to the filling.
½ cup grated cheese: Melts into the filling, lending creaminess and extra flavor.

How to Make Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies)

Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling

Start by heating vegetable oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas. Add the ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even texture.

Step 2: Add the Flavor Boosters

Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper, then let this mixture simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking while the flavors deepen and the sauce thickens beautifully.

Step 3: Cool the Filling

After simmering, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the beef mixture to cool. This step is key to prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy and to make filling the pies easier and cleaner.

Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry Cups

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a muffin tray and press a sheet of thawed puff pastry into each cup, shaping it to line the sides perfectly. This creates the crisp shells that will cradle your flavorful filling.

Step 5: Fill and Assemble the Pies

Spoon the cooled beef mixture into each pastry-lined cup, filling about three-quarters full. Optionally, sprinkle frozen peas or grated cheese on top to add extra texture and flavor. Cover each with another puff pastry sheet and use a fork to press the edges and seal them tightly.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush the top of each pie with an egg wash made from one beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water. This simple glaze helps create that irresistible golden crust. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the pies turn a beautiful golden brown and the pastry is flaky and crisp.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the pies cool for about 5 minutes after baking—you want to enjoy that melty filling without burning your mouth! Once slightly cooled, gently remove the pies from the tray and get ready to share these tasty Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies) with friends and family.

How to Serve Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies)

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds freshness and a burst of green, while a drizzle of tomato sauce or your favorite chutney on the side can add a little zing. These small touches transform your mini pies into a feast for both the eyes and palate.

Side Dishes

Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies) are wonderfully versatile—pair them with a crisp green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette to balance their richness. Classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw offer comfort and crunch, creating a meal that is both satisfying and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking outside the box? Serve these mini pies on rustic wooden boards alongside dipping sauces like aioli, spicy mustard, or even a sweet chili sauce. For parties, pile them high on tiered stands or in decorative baskets lined with parchment; not only does this look festive, but it invites guests to dig in and enjoy the Aussie goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store the Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness without any loss of flavor or texture.

Freezing

These mini pies freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Place cooled pies on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to two months, ready to be pulled out whenever hunger strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, place frozen or refrigerated pies in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the pastry regains its crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that flaky texture; the oven is your best friend here!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for these pies?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute with lamb, chicken, or even a plant-based mince to suit your preferences. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the filling is cooked through.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing the filling a day ahead actually helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just cool it completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to assemble your pies.

Is puff pastry the only pastry option?

Puff pastry is preferred for its buttery, flaky layers, but shortcrust pastry can also be used if you want a sturdier shell. Keep in mind the texture will differ but the flavor will still be delightful.

How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?

Cooling the filling before assembly and ensuring the beef mixture is thick help keep the pastry crisp. Also, using egg wash on the edges seals the pies, protecting the crust from moisture during baking.

Are these pies suitable for freezing before or after baking?

You can freeze Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies) both before and after baking. Freezing raw pies allows you to bake fresh at any time, while freezing baked pies offers ready-to-eat convenience. Just adjust reheating times based on their state.

Final Thoughts

There is so much joy wrapped up in the humble Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies). Whether you’re hosting a gathering, seeking the perfect snack, or just craving something hearty and comforting, these pies never disappoint. Their golden, flaky pastry and flavorful beef filling make every bite a little escape to Aussie flavors—and honestly, once you try them, they will quickly become a staple in your kitchen favorites. Give this recipe a go and watch how these little pies bring big smiles all around.

Australian Beef Party Pies (Mini Meat Pies) Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 28 reviews

Author: Matteo
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 mini pies 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

These Australian Beef Party Pies are mini savory pies filled with a flavorful ground beef mixture, wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, they combine tender beef cooked with herbs and sauces, baked until golden and crispy. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Instructions

Heat the oil: Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing.
Sauté aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink.
Season the mixture: Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine all flavors evenly.
Simmer: Allow the beef mixture to simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
Cool the filling: Remove the skillet from heat and let the beef mixture cool to room temperature, ensuring it’s easier to handle for filling the pies.
Preheat oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) so it’s ready for baking the pies.
Prepare muffin tray: Lightly grease a muffin tray and press one sheet of puff pastry into each cup, gently lining the bottoms and sides.
Fill the pastry: Spoon the cooled beef mixture into each puff pastry-lined muffin cup, filling about three-quarters full.
Add optional toppings: Sprinkle frozen peas or grated cheese on top of the beef filling if desired for added flavor and texture.
Seal the pies: Cover each filled cup with another sheet of puff pastry, sealing the edges by pressing with a fork to lock in the filling.
Apply egg wash: Brush the top of each pie with a mixture of beaten egg and water to achieve a shiny, golden crust upon baking.
Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the pies for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and flaky.
Cool slightly: Remove the pies from the oven and allow them to cool in the tray for about 5 minutes for easier handling.
Serve: Carefully remove the pies from the tray and serve warm with tomato sauce, ketchup, or your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

You can customize the filling by adding vegetables like diced carrots or mushrooms.
Use frozen puff pastry sheets thawed overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
For a vegetarian option, substitute beef with cooked lentils or plant-based mince.
Make sure the filling is cool before adding to the pastry to prevent sogginess.
These pies can be frozen before baking; bake straight from frozen with an extra 5 minutes added to baking time.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Snack, Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Australian