If you’re Irish, it won’t be a surprise that you love Guinness or that you love pies. This Steak and Guinness Pie from the Bored of Lunch cookbook is prepared using beef steak, Guinness, beef stock, tomato purée, dried rosemary, and dried thyme.

To make Steak and Guinness Pie in your slow cooker or crockpot, just mix all the ingredients except the pastry and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4 hours. Top with puff pastry and bake until golden.

This is the easiest pie recipe you’ll ever make – just throw it in, let it cook away during the day, add a pastry lid and serve, it is honestly that easy.

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Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried in This Recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Typically, the ratio is three times as much fresh as dried. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, use 3 teaspoons of fresh rosemary.

Slow Cooker Steak and Guinness Pie Ingredients

• 800g of beef steak or rump (or 1kg brisket), chopped
• 440ml of Guinness
• 200ml of beef stock
• 1 tbsp of tomato purée
• 1 tsp of dried rosemary
• 1 tsp of dried thyme
• 1 tsp of dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp of brown sugar
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 1 celery stick, chopped
• 1 heaped tbsp of cornflour
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing the pastry)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Tenderstem broccoli and carrot and parsnip mash, for serving

How To Make Slow Cooker Steak and Guinness Pie

1. Prepare the slow cooker: Place the beef steak, chopped carrots, chopped red onion, and chopped celery stick into the slow cooker.
2. Add the liquids and seasonings: Pour the Guinness and beef stock into the slow cooker; add the tomato purée, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
3. Add remaining ingredients: Include the bay leaf, brown sugar, cornflour, crushed garlic cloves, and season with salt and pepper, stirring well to mix everything thoroughly.
4. Cook the filling: Set the slow cooker on high for 4 hours, or on low for 7–8 hours; ensure all ingredients are tender and flavors meld.
5. Prepare the pastry and oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and check if your slow-cooker pot is oven-safe.
6. Assemble the pie: Place the puff pastry over the beef filling, tucking the edges inside the pot; brush the pastry with the beaten egg for a nice glaze.
7. Bake the pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden and crisp, ensuring a delightful finish.
8. Serve: Savor your delicious Steak and Guinness Pie ideally with tenderstem broccoli and carrot and parsnip mash for a hearty meal.

Can I Prepare This Pie Ahead of Time?

You can prepare this pie one day in advance. Assemble the pie without baking and keep it refrigerated. When ready to serve, bake it according to the instructions to enjoy a freshly baked crust.

Recipe Tips

• Choose the right cut: Opt for chuck or brisket if you want the beef to be exceptionally tender after slow cooking; both cuts absorb flavors well and become more succulent.
• Enhancing flavor: Introduce a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture before cooking; it adds a complex, umami flavor that complements the Guinness beautifully.
• Manage the thickness: If the pie filling is too runny after cooking, mix an additional teaspoon of cornflour with water and stir it in; cook on high for another 30 minutes.
• Testing pastry placement: To avoid a soggy bottom, ensure the puff pastry only covers the top and does not touch the filling directly before baking.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace the Guinness with a gluten-free dark beer and use a gluten-free puff pastry to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the slow cooker for a bit of heat, which contrasts nicely with the deep flavors of the Guinness.
• Root Vegetable Boost: Include parsnips and sweet potatoes along with the carrots for an added sweetness and texture variety in the pie filling.
• Cheesy Top: Sprinkle-grated cheddar or a mix of cheeses on top of the pastry before baking, creating a deliciously crispy and cheesy crust.

What To Serve With Steak and Guinness Pie

Serve your Steak and Guinness Pie with vibrant sides like honey-roasted carrots, minted peas, creamed spinach, and garlic mashed potatoes. You can also pair it with a crisp watercress salad for a fresh contrast.

How To Store Leftover Steak and Guinness Pie

In The Fridge: Cool the pie completely before wrapping it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Make sure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out.

In The Freezer: Steak and Guinness Pie freezes well due to its moisture content. First, allow the pie to cool completely. Wrap it securely in aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored frozen for up to two months.

How To Reheat Leftover Steak and Guinness Pie

Reheat your leftover Steak and Guinness Pie in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. Cover the pie with foil to prevent the crust from burning. This method helps maintain the pastry’s crispiness.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Meat And Potato Pie
• Slow Cooker Chicken And Leek Pie
• Slow Cooker Steak And Mushroom Pudding