Steak and Kidney Pie
BeefCuisine British
Tags Pie
Ingredients 12
Story behind the dish
Few comfort foods evoke nostalgia quite like a hearty steak and kidney pie. Its origins trace back to traditional British cuisine, where slow-cooked meats and rich gravy come together beneath a flaky, golden crust. Each bite offers a burst of savory goodness, blending tender beef, flavorful kidneys, and aromatic onions—perfect for cozy Sunday dinners or special family gatherings. The process of creating this classic dish is an art, filled with warmth and the promise of satisfying, home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet (about 1 1/4 cups or 8 oz) puff pastry
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg white and yolks)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 lbs (70 ml) beef, cut into chunks
- 7 oz (200 g) lamb kidneys, sliced
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup (30 g) plain flour
- 3.5 fl oz (85 ml) beef stock
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of pepper
- Dash of Worcestershire sauce
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C / Gas 7).
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan. Brown the beef pieces all over in batches if needed. Once browned, set aside.
- In the same pan, brown the lamb kidneys on both sides. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Return the beef to the pan. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the meat and onions, stirring to coat.
- Pour in the beef stock, stirring well, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let simmer uncovered for about 1 1/2 hours. If the mixture reduces too much, add a little more stock to keep it moist.
- Remove from heat. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and add a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Allow the filling to cool completely.
- Transfer the cooled meat mixture into a pie dish.
- Roll out the puff pastry to about ¼ inch (5 mm) thick and make it roughly 2 inches (5 cm) larger than your dish on all sides.
- Carefully lift the pastry with a rolling pin and drape it over the pie dish. Trim the excess pastry and crimp the edges with your fingers.
- Brush the top with beaten egg yolk for a glossy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, until the crust is golden-brown and puffed.
- Serve slices warm with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables to soak up the flavorful gravy.
Chef’s tips & serving ideas
- For extra richness, add a splash of red wine to the gravy before simmering.
- Serve with a side of buttery mashed potatoes and seasonal greens for the complete hearty experience.
Closing thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about sitting down to a slice of homemade steak and kidney pie, especially when it's freshly baked and aromatic. Its rustic charm and savory depth make it a beloved dish that gathers family and friends around the table. With a little patience and love, this classic recipe transforms simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying feast—perfect for making treasured memories in your own kitchen.