Mince And Cheese Pie Recipe – New Zealand's Comfort Food

Mince And Cheese Pie is a beloved New Zealand dish featuring a savory filling of minced meat, cheese, and vegetables encased in a flaky pastry. Often enjoyed as a hearty meal or snack, it reflects the country's comfort food culture and is commonly found at bakeries and family gatherings. This dish is a staple in Kiwi cuisine, perfect for casual dining or weekend gatherings.

⚡ Easy 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

For the Filling:
1 lb (450 g) ground beef or minced meat
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, grated
1 cup frozen peas
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 cup beef stock
2 tablespoons plain flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pie:
1 sheet of ready-made puff pastry or pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

Stir in the grated carrot, frozen peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and thyme. Cook for a few minutes.

Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for another minute.

Gradually pour in the beef stock while stirring. Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Prepare the Pie Crust

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Roll out the puff pastry or pie crust on a lightly floured surface. If using pre-made puff pastry, you may need to cut it to fit your pie dish.

Line a pie dish with the pastry, trimming any excess. If using a pie crust, you can roll out the second crust for the top layer or use just one crust for a single-crust pie.

Assemble the Pie

Spread the beef filling evenly in the pie dish.

Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the filling.

If using a top layer of pastry, place it over the filling, crimping the edges to seal. If using a single crust, you can add a lattice design or leave it open.

Brush the top with the beaten egg to give it a golden color.

Bake the Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.

Serve

Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mince And Cheese Pie?

Mince And Cheese Pie is a savory pastry filled with ground meat, cheese, and vegetables, baked until golden. It's a popular comfort food enjoyed by many.

Where does Mince And Cheese Pie come from?

Mince And Cheese Pie originates from New Zealand, where it's a staple in both homes and bakeries, reflecting the country's love for hearty, filling dishes.

What are the main ingredients in Mince And Cheese Pie?

Key ingredients include ground beef, cheese, onion, garlic, carrot, and frozen peas, all encased in a delicious pastry shell.

How long does Mince And Cheese Pie take to make?

Mince And Cheese Pie takes approximately 55-70 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Mince And Cheese Pie?

Serve with a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or a side of tomato sauce for dipping.

Mince And Cheese Pie