Guinness Braised Beef Pot Pie

Guinness Braised Beef Pot Pie is a rich, hearty dish featuring tender beef slow-cooked in a flavorful Guinness-infused gravy, then baked under a golden, flaky puff pastry crust. This comforting meal is perfect for cold nights, special occasions, or whenever you crave a warm and satisfying dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, Rich Flavor – The Guinness stout adds depth and enhances the beefy, savory gravy.
• Tender, Slow-Cooked Beef – Braised to perfection, the beef melts in your mouth.
• Golden, Flaky Pastry – A crisp, buttery puff pastry crust tops off the dish beautifully.
• Comfort Food Classic – A warm, hearty meal perfect for cozy dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Braise the beef in advance and assemble when ready to bake.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Beef Filling:

• Boneless beef chuck, cut into chunks
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Onion, diced
• Carrots, diced
• Celery, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato paste
• Guinness stout beer
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Thyme (fresh or dried)
• Bay leaf
• All-purpose flour (for thickening)

For the Pastry Topping:

• Puff pastry, thawed
• Egg (for egg wash)

Directions

1. Sear the Beef

1. Pat the beef dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the beef chunks in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Build the Flavor

1. In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 1 minute.
3. Sprinkle in flour, stirring well to coat the vegetables.

3. Braise the Beef

1. Pour in Guinness beer, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
2. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf.
3. Return the beef to the pot, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours until the beef is fork-tender.

4. Assemble the Pot Pie

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Transfer the beef mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
3. Roll out the puff pastry and place over the top, trimming any excess.
4. Brush with egg wash for a golden crust.

5. Bake & Serve

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
2. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2.5-3 hours (including braising time)
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Topping – Sprinkle shredded cheddar under the puff pastry for extra richness.
• Vegetable Additions – Add mushrooms or peas for more texture.
• No Alcohol Version – Substitute Guinness with extra beef broth.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Mashed Potato Topping – Swap puff pastry for a shepherd’s pie-style mashed potato crust.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding extra time.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different beer?

Yes! A rich stout like Murphy’s or a dark ale will work well.

What cut of beef is best?

Chuck roast is ideal for braising, but short ribs or brisket also work.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of puff pastry?

Yes! A traditional pie crust will give it a more classic pot pie texture.

How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure the filling is thick enough and let it cool slightly before adding the pastry.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the beef first, then cook everything on low for 6-8 hours before assembling.

What can I serve with this?

A fresh green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or crusty bread pairs perfectly.

Can I make mini pot pies instead?

Yes! Divide the filling into ramekins and top each with puff pastry before baking.

How do I make the filling thicker?

Let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few minutes before baking, or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Make the beef filling in advance, refrigerate, then assemble and bake when ready.

Does the alcohol cook out?

Most of the alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a rich depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Guinness Braised Beef Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining slow-braised, melt-in-your-mouth beef with a crispy, golden pastry crust. Whether for a cozy dinner or a festive occasion, this hearty dish will impress with its deep, rich flavors and flaky topping. Try it today and enjoy a taste of classic pub-style cooking at home!

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