Growing up in Scotland, I have so many fond memories of Baked Scotch Pie. It was a staple in our household, and the aroma of the flaky crust and savory filling would instantly transport me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. I can still picture her standing over the stove, carefully crimping the edges of the pastry to create the perfect little pie. She’d always make a few extra, just in case any of us kids “happened to get hungry” after school. Those Baked Scotch Pies were like little pockets of comfort – we’d devour them straight from the tin, the hot juices running down our chins as we savored every bite.
Why This Baked Scotch Pie Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Baked Scotch Pie
There’s something truly special about a well-made Baked Scotch Pie. It’s not just a simple meat pie – it’s a work of art, with a delicate balance of flavors and textures that can’t be matched. The key is in the technique, from the flaky, golden-brown crust to the rich, perfectly seasoned filling. This recipe delivers all of that and more, with a few insider tips that’ll have you making Baked Scotch Pie like a pro.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground beef: The foundation of the filling, choose a lean variety for the best texture.
- Onion: Finely diced to add sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for a pungent punch.
- Worcestershire sauce: A splash of this umami-packed condiment enhances the savory notes.
- Thyme: Fresh or dried, this aromatic herb complements the beef beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Pie dough: Either store-bought or homemade, this flaky crust is the star of the show.
- Egg wash: For that golden, shiny finish on the Baked Scotch Pies.
Step-by-Step Baked Scotch Pie Instructions
Preparing Your Baked Scotch Pie
Baking Baked Scotch Pie is a labor of love, but the end result is so worth it. This recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish, and you’ll need a few key tools like a pie dish, a rolling pin, and a pastry brush. But don’t worry, I’ll walk you through every step to ensure your Baked Scotch Pies turn out perfectly.
1- In a large skillet, sauté the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the filling simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4- Meanwhile, roll out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a circular cutter or a sharp knife to cut out 6 equal-sized circles, reserving the scraps for the tops.
5- Spoon the beef filling into the center of each dough circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Brush the edges with a bit of water, then top with the remaining dough circles. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
6- Transfer the Baked Scotch Pies to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with an egg wash and cut a small slit in the center of each one to allow steam to escape. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Baked Scotch Pies is in the details. Make sure to drain the beef filling well to prevent a soggy bottom crust. And be gentle when crimping the edges – you don’t want to overwork the dough and make it tough. Finally, keep a close eye on the pies in the oven to ensure the crust doesn’t burn. A few minutes can make all the difference!
Serving and Storing Your Baked Scotch Pie
Perfect Pairings for Baked Scotch Pie
Baked Scotch Pie is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs beautifully with all sorts of sides and beverages. For a classic pairing, serve it alongside some creamy mashed potatoes and a crisp green salad. It also makes a delicious appetizer or snack when paired with a pint of your favorite ale. And let’s not forget about the ultimate accompaniment – a dollop of tangy HP sauce or Worcestershire sauce for dipping!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Baked Scotch Pies are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but they also make fantastic leftovers. Store any uneaten pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and pop them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can even make a batch of Baked Scotch Pies ahead of time and freeze them for future cravings. Just let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Baked Scotch Pie
Creative Baked Scotch Pie Variations
While the classic Baked Scotch Pie is hard to beat, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Try swapping the ground beef for spicy Italian sausage or a blend of pork and beef. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices, like rosemary, bay leaves, or a pinch of nutmeg. For a veggie-packed version, sauté some diced carrots, celery, and mushrooms along with the onions. And don’t be afraid to get seasonal – a Baked Scotch Pie with a sweet-tart apple filling would be divine in the fall.
Making Baked Scotch Pie Diet-Friendly
Baked Scotch Pie is naturally gluten-free when made with a gluten-free pie crust. For a vegan version, you can use a plant-based ground “meat” and swap the egg wash for a plant-based milk. And if you’re watching your carbs, try using a low-carb pie dough or even making the pies in a muffin tin for individual servings. No matter your dietary needs, there’s a way to enjoy the comforting flavors of Baked Scotch Pie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust for Baked Scotch Pie?
A: Absolutely! While homemade pie dough is delicious, a high-quality store-bought crust will work just as well. Just be sure to let it thaw completely before using.
Q: How long do Baked Scotch Pies take to bake?
A: In this recipe, the Baked Scotch Pies bake for 25-30 minutes at 400°F. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure the crust doesn’t over-brown.
Q: Can I freeze Baked Scotch Pies?
A: Yes, Baked Scotch Pies freeze beautifully! Let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Q: How many Baked Scotch Pies does this recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 6 individual Baked Scotch Pies. You can easily scale the recipe up or down to feed a crowd or just your family.
Q: Why is my Baked Scotch Pie crust soggy?
A: A soggy crust is usually caused by excess moisture in the filling. Make sure to drain the beef mixture well and avoid overfilling the pies. You can also try blind-baking the bottom crust before adding the filling.
Baked Scotch Pie
- Total Time: 55
- Yield: 6
Description
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of a traditional Baked Scotch Pie. This family-style recipe features a flaky pastry crust surrounding a hearty meat filling, making it the perfect comfort food.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 sheet of pre-made pie crust or homemade dough
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
1. – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. – In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned, 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. – Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent.
4. – Stir in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. – Roll out the pie crust and line a 9-inch pie dish with the bottom crust.
6. – Spoon the meat filling into the crust-lined pie dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. – Top with the remaining pie crust, crimp the edges to seal, and cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
8. – Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg.
9. – Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.
10. – Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a flakier crust, you can freeze the assembled pie for 30 minutes before baking. Serve with a side salad or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Snacks & Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
Conclusion
Baked Scotch Pie is a true Scottish treasure, and this recipe is the perfect way to bring a taste of that cozy, homemade goodness to your own kitchen. With its flaky crust and savory, seasoned filling, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite. So what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible Baked Scotch Pies – your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you. Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out in the comments below!