Name: Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 6 h 25 min
Total time: 7 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 600 g chuck steak; 2 tbsp flour; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion; 4 gloves garlic; 4 fresh thyme sprigs; 440 ml Guinness stout; 440 g crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp vegetable stock powder; salt and pepper; 3 sheets puff pastry; 1 egg

Slow cooker steak and gravy pies are the perfect comfort food. Rich, tender steak slow cooked in a savory gravy, encased in a flaky puff pastry. It is a traditional pub-style dish that you can easily re-create at home.

Photos of Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies Recipe

The most important ingredient for this recipe, the chuck steak, is usually available in most supermarkets. If not, a good butcher should be able to provide it. Guinness Stout is another key ingredient that brings a unique flavor profile to the dish. It is actually a type of beer, and is widely available in the beer section of supermarkets. If you prefer, you can substitute it with another stout or dark beer.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies

Chuck steak: This is a cut of beef usually used for slow cooking methods due to its rich flavor and tender texture after long hours of cooking.

Flour: Used to dust the steak for a nice sear and it also helps to thicken the gravy.

Olive oil: Used for frying steak and onions.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Garlic: Gives a distinctive, aromatic flavor to the gravy.

Thyme: Provides a subtle, earthy flavor.

Guinness Stout: Gives the dish a robust and unique flavor.

Crushed tomatoes: Adds a little acidity and sweetness to balance the rich flavors.

Vegetable stock powder: Enhances the flavor of the gravy.

Puff pastry: Used for the crust of the pies, providing a light and flaky texture.

Egg: Helps to give the pastry a golden and glossy finish when baked.

One reader, Benedict Barnette says:

This slow cooker steak and gravy pies recipe is a game-changer! The steak is so tender and flavorful, and the gravy is rich and delicious. The convenience of using a slow cooker makes this recipe a winner. It's a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with minimal effort.

Benedict Barnette

Essential Techniques for Making Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies

How to brown the steak: In a large non-stick pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and brown the seasoned steak in batches until it is browned all over. This will help to develop rich flavors in the meat.

How to shred the beef: Once the beef is cooked and tender, use two forks to shred it into smaller pieces. This will help to distribute the meat evenly in the pies and make it easier to eat.

How to assemble the pies: Place the pastry into the pie molds, add the beef mixture, and cover with a pastry lid. Seal the edges by pressing them together and brush the tops with beaten egg before baking.

How to bake the pies: Preheat the oven to 390 degrees F and bake the pies for 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. This will ensure that the pastry is cooked through and has a delicious, flaky texture.

How to serve: Allow the pies to cool for 5 minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of tomato sauce for dipping.

How To Make Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies

These steak and gravy pies are filled with tender chunks of beef that have been infused with a full beer flavor and a hearty gravy.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 6 hours 25 minutes

Cool Time: 5 minutes

Total: 7 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

600gchuck steak,or stewing beef, diced
2tbspflour
2tbspolive oil,divided
1onion,peeled and roughly chopped
4gloves garlic,peeled and crushed
4fresh thyme sprigs
440mlGuinness stout,or beef stock, or 2 cups of dark stout beer
440gcrushed tomatoes
2tbspvegetable stock powder,optional but enhances the flavour
Salt and pepper,to taste
3sheets puff pastry,defrosted
1egg,whisked

Instructions

Season beef with salt and pepper and evenly toss in the flour to coat (use a sealed sandwich bag if needed).
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large non stick pan/skillet and fry in batches until browned all over. Transfer to slow cooker.
Heat the remaining oil in the pan and add the onion. Fry until fragrant and softened; add the garlic and thyme and fry for 1 more minute; transfer to slow cooker.
Pour the beer and tomatoes over the beef; season with vegetable stock powder (if using) and salt and pepper.
Mix all ingredients together; cover slow cooker with lid and turn on to Low settings. Cook for 6 hours or until beef is tender and falling apart.
Once cooked, shred the beef and set aside.
Press each pie base into each hole lightly using fingers and draw the pastry up the mould so the pastry is 1 centimeter above the mould.
Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the beef mixture into each hole, brush edges with a small amount water, top each with a pastry lid and press the edges together to seal in the filling. (Use a fork if needed, or crimp the edges if using a muffin tin.)
Brush the pastry tops with beaten egg and prick the tops with a fork to allow stream to escape.
Bake in a preheated oven at 390 degrees F for 25 minutes or until pastry is golden.
Remove and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Serve with tomato sauce, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 447.15kcal
Fat: 27.19g
Saturated Fat: 9.31g
Trans Fat: 1.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.53g
Carbohydrates: 23.98g
Fiber: 2.86g
Sugar: 4.40g
Protein: 23.94g
Cholesterol: 94.66mg
Sodium: 740.12mg
Calcium: 94.13mg
Potassium: 704.84mg
Iron: 4.33mg
Vitamin A: 28.71µg
Vitamin C: 16.50mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies

When browning the chuck steak, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This can cause the meat to steam rather than sear, preventing that desirable caramelized crust from forming. Also, using a slow cooker to cook the steak ensures that the meat becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the guinness stout, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable stock powder. Lastly, when sealing the pies, ensure to press the edges firmly to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and tools needed before starting the cooking process to streamline the recipe.

Use pre-cut vegetables: Save time by using pre-cut vegetables, such as pre-chopped onions and pre-diced garlic, to reduce prep time.

Slow cooker convenience: Utilize a slow cooker for the beef and gravy filling to allow for hands-off cooking and tender, flavorful results.

Make ahead and freeze: Prepare the filling in advance and freeze it for future use, allowing for quick and convenient meal preparation.

Puff pastry shortcut: Opt for store-bought puff pastry sheets instead of making pastry from scratch to save time and effort.

Multi-task: While the filling is cooking, use the time to prepare other components of the dish or to clean up, maximizing efficiency in the kitchen.

Leftover transformation: Repurpose leftover cooked steak or roast beef to use in the recipe, saving time on cooking the meat from scratch.

Kitchen organization: Keep the kitchen organized and clean as you cook to minimize time spent searching for ingredients and tools.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies Recipe

Chuck steak - Substitute with beef stew meat: Beef stew meat is a good substitute for chuck steak as it is also a tough cut of meat that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.
Guinness stout - Substitute with beef broth: Beef broth can be used as a substitute for Guinness stout to add depth of flavor and richness to the gravy without the alcohol content.
Puff pastry - Substitute with shortcrust pastry: Shortcrust pastry can be used as a substitute for puff pastry to create a flaky and buttery crust for the pies.

How to Beautifully Present Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies

Elevate the pie crust: Create a flaky and golden-brown pie crust that is perfectly baked to add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped thyme or parsley on top of the pies to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Plate with precision: Carefully place the pies on the serving dish, ensuring they are aligned and presented with finesse.
Drizzle with a reduction: Create a rich and flavorful Guinness stout reduction to drizzle over the pies, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
Accompany with a side salad: Serve the pies alongside a vibrant and crisp mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty pies.
Use elegant serving ware: Present the pies on elegant ceramic plates or slate boards to enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Add a touch of edible gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, delicately place a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of each pie to create a stunning visual effect.
Incorporate a sauce swirl: Use a squeeze bottle to create a decorative swirl of tomato sauce on the serving plate, adding a sophisticated touch to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Steak and Gravy Pies

Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop electrical cooking appliance that is used for simmering, which allows for the preparation of dishes such as stews, pot roasts, and other one-pot meals.
Non-stick pan/skillet: A non-stick pan or skillet has a special coating that prevents food from sticking, making it easier to cook with less oil and to clean.
Oven: An oven is a thermally insulated chamber used for the heating, baking, or drying of a substance, and most commonly used for cooking.
Fork: A fork is a kitchen utensil with several tines used to lift and eat food.
Pastry brush: A pastry brush is a cooking utensil used to spread butter, oil, or glaze on food.
Muffin tin: A muffin tin is a baking pan with individual cup-shaped depressions used to bake muffins or cupcakes.
Sandwich bag: A sandwich bag is a small plastic bag used to store food or to coat meat with flour or seasoning.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a deep bowl used for mixing ingredients, especially in baking.
Fork: A fork is a kitchen utensil with several tines used to lift and eat food.
Knife: A knife is a tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is a flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and cooking.
Egg: Eggs are a common ingredient in cooking and baking, used for binding, leavening, and enriching dishes.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Steak and Gravy Pies

Allow the steak and gravy pies to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled pies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the pies:
- Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped pies in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, labeling them with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality.
To reheat frozen pies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the pies from the freezer and unwrap them from the plastic wrap.
- Place the frozen pies on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and the pastry is crisp and golden.
- If the pies are thawed before reheating, reduce the baking time to 15-20 minutes.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual pies in the microwave:
- Place the thawed or frozen pie on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The time may vary depending on your microwave's power and the size of the pie.
- Be cautious when removing the pie from the microwave, as the filling may be hot and can cause burns.

How To Reheat Leftover Steak and Gravy Pies

To reheat leftover slow cooker steak and gravy pies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pies on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will prevent the puff pastry from burning while the filling warms up.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place a single pie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat the pie, as the puff pastry may become soggy. If you have multiple pies, reheat them individually for the best results.
For a crispy crust, you can also reheat the pies in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pies in the basket, ensuring they don't touch each other. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the puff pastry is crisp and the filling is heated through.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your pies. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pies on the wire rack. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is warm and the puff pastry is crispy.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat the pies in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a single pie in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the filling is warm and the puff pastry is crispy. Flip the pie halfway through heating to ensure even warming.

Interesting Trivia About Steak and Gravy Pies

The slow cooker steak and gravy pies recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. It combines tender chuck steak with rich Guinness stout and flavorful thyme to create a comforting filling for the pies. The use of puff pastry adds a flaky and buttery texture to the pies, making them a delightful treat. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a classic steak and gravy dish in a convenient and portable form. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these pies are sure to be a hit.

Is Making Steak and Gravy Pies at Home Cost-Effective?

The slow cooker steak and gravy pies recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of chuck steak and basic pantry ingredients keeps the cost reasonable. The rich flavors and hearty portions make it a satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, depending on the prices of ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8.

Is This Steak and Gravy Pie Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This slow cooker steak and gravy pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side. The use of chuck steak, which is a fattier cut of beef, along with the puff pastry, contributes to a higher saturated fat content. Additionally, the Guinness stout and crushed tomatoes add carbohydrates and sugars to the dish. The recipe also lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, to reduce the overall fat content
Incorporate more vegetables into the filling, such as carrots, celery, and mushrooms, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content of the dish
Reduce the amount of puff pastry used or replace it with a whole-wheat or phyllo pastry alternative to lower the saturated fat and calorie content
Use a low-sodium vegetable stock powder to help control the salt content of the recipe
Serve the pies with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add extra nutrients

Editor's Opinion on the Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies Recipe

The slow cooker steak and gravy pies recipe is a delightful combination of tender chuck steak, rich Guinness stout, and flavorful thyme, creating a hearty and comforting filling. The use of puff pastry adds a delightful flakiness to the pies, making them a perfect comfort food. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish. This recipe is a wonderful choice for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, and the end result is sure to impress with its rich and savory flavors.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic bread, brushed with herb-infused butter and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy Steak and Gravy Pies

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes in a rich and flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan: This classic Italian dish features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy breadcrumb and parmesan cheese crust, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It's a family favorite that's easy to make and always a hit!

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: This refreshing fruit salad is a colorful mix of fresh berries, melon, and citrus fruits, tossed in a sweet and tangy honey-lime dressing. It's a light and healthy dessert or side dish that's perfect for summer gatherings.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Steak and Gravy Pies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with a simple yet elegant appetizer of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves skewered on toothpicks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Apple Crumble: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a buttery crumble topping. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweet and tart.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies Recipe:

This slow cooker steak and gravy pies recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The chuck steak is slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring a tender and flavorful filling. The addition of Guinness stout and fresh thyme infuses the dish with rich, aromatic notes. The use of puff pastry creates a golden, flaky crust that perfectly complements the savory filling. With a balance of crushed tomatoes and onion, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of flavors. Trust in the expertise of this culinary creation for a delightful dining experience.

Want to share your experience making these Slow Cooker Steak and Gravy Pies or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in our Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of beer instead of Guinness stout?

Yes, you can use a different type of beer if you prefer. Dark beers like stout or porter work best for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with your favorite beer.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can still achieve great results by cooking the beef in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature for a few hours. Just make sure to check on it occasionally to ensure it doesn't dry out.

Can I freeze the steak and gravy pies?

Yes, you can freeze the pies. Once they have cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. They should keep well for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Can I use pre-made pie crust instead of puff pastry?

Certainly! Pre-made pie crust can be used as a substitute for puff pastry. Just make sure to adjust the baking time and temperature according to the instructions on the pie crust packaging.

Can I add vegetables to the steak and gravy filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms, to the filling for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to cook them until they are tender before assembling the pies.