Print

Guinness Beef Pie

Guinness Beef Pie

Guinness Beef Pie is a rich, hearty Irish-inspired dish combining tender slow-cooked beef, aromatic vegetables, and the deep, malty flavor of Guinness stout, all encased in a flaky pastry. Perfect for cozy nights, this comforting classic is easy to customize and delivers layers of bold, savory taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Liquids

  • 1.5 lbs (700g) beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 bottle (12 oz / 355 ml) Guinness Stout
  • 2 cups (480 ml) beef stock

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 23 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2 bay leaves

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
  • 1 sheet puff pastry (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: Cut the beef chuck into bite-sized cubes and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat and brown the beef in batches until caramelized on all sides, locking in juices and building deep flavor.
  2. Cook the Vegetables: Using the same pot, sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, forming the aromatic base for the pie filling.
  3. Add Flour and Herbs: Sprinkle flour evenly over the vegetables and stir well to create a roux which will thicken the stew. Add fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves for earthy undertones.
  4. Deglaze with Guinness: Pour in the Guinness stout to lift the rich browned bits from the bottom of the pot, infusing the filling with a slight malty bitterness that balances richness.
  5. Simmer the Filling: Return the browned beef to the pot along with the beef stock. Cover and simmer gently for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens to a stew-like consistency.
  6. Assemble the Pie: Transfer the filling into a pie dish. Cover it with puff pastry sheets, trimming any excess edges, then brush the surface with beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy crust when baked.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Place the pie in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.

Notes

  • Use high-quality, well-marbled beef chuck to maximize tenderness and flavor.
  • Brown the meat thoroughly; this step adds essential caramelized flavor.
  • Classic Guinness Draught is preferred for its authentic bold and smooth taste.
  • The pie tastes even better the next day after flavors meld together.
  • Avoid wetting the pastry edges to prevent sogginess.
  • Thicken the filling gradually and simmer slowly for optimal texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Guinness beef pie, Irish beef stew, slow-cooked beef pie, comfort food, pub pie, hearty beef recipe