Guinness Pie Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food

Guinness Pie is a rich, hearty dish that embodies the essence of traditional Irish cuisine. This savoury pie, filled with tender beef, crispy bacon, and a deep, malty stout-infused sauce, is the ultimate comfort food.

Its buttery cheddar crust adds a satisfying crunch, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a special occasion, this homemade Guinness Pie is well worth the effort.

Ingredients for Guinness Pie

For the Crust

1 ½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
8 tablespoons (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 cup shredded aged Irish cheddar cheese (3 ounces)
¼ to ½ cup ice water

For the Filling

6 strips thick-cut bacon (6 ounces), cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons safflower oil, plus extra if needed
3 pounds beef chuck, cut into ¾-inch bite-size pieces
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 medium yellow onion (8 ounces), chopped (2 cups)
4 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced (2 tablespoons)
1 pound cremini mushrooms, halved or quartered (4 cups)
¼ cup unbleached all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cups dark stout beer, such as Guinness
7 stems fresh thyme
1 dried bay leaf
1 pound fingerling or new potatoes, cut into ¾-inch pieces (3 cups)
8 ounces frozen pearl onions, thawed (1 ⅔ cups)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
2 tablespoons finely grated horseradish
1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
1 large egg, lightly beaten

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Crust

In a food processor, combine flour and salt. Add butter and cheddar cheese, pulsing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
While the machine runs, gradually drizzle in ice water until the dough comes together. Avoid over-processing.
Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. (Can be frozen for up to 1 month.)

Making the Filling

Heat safflower oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook bacon until crisp, about 14 minutes. Transfer to paper towels and reserve the fat.
Wipe out the pot and add 2 tablespoons reserved bacon fat. Heat over medium-high and brown beef chunks in batches. Season with salt and pepper.
Remove browned beef and set aside. Add 1 cup broth, scraping up browned bits, then pour this liquid over the meat.
Heat another 2 tablespoons of reserved fat in the pot. Sauté onions and garlic for 2 minutes, then add mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes.
Sprinkle flour over vegetables, add Dijon mustard, and stir for 1 minute.
Return beef and broth to the pot. Pour in remaining broth, Guinness stout, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour 30 minutes.
Add potatoes and continue simmering, covered, for 25 minutes.
Discard the bay leaf and thyme stems. Stir in bacon, pearl onions, dill, horseradish, and vinegar. Adjust seasoning.

Assembling and Baking the Pie

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to 2 inches larger than your baking dish.
Transfer the filling into a 2.5-quart baking dish and place it on a rimmed baking sheet.
Lay the rolled-out crust over the filling, trimming excess dough to leave a 1-inch overhang.
Brush the crust with egg wash, seal the edges, and cut vent holes in the top.
Bake until golden brown and bubbling, about 35 to 45 minutes.
Let the Guinness Pie cool for 20 minutes before serving.

FAQs About Guinness Pie

What is the best beef cut for Guinness Pie?

The best cut is beef chuck, as it becomes tender when slow-cooked.

Can I make Guinness Pie ahead of time?

Yes! The filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated.

Can I use a different beer instead of Guinness?

Yes, any dark stout beer works, but Guinness provides the most authentic flavour.

Can I freeze Guinness Pie?

Yes! Freeze before or after baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with Guinness Pie?

Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

References

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Guinness Pie Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food