Name: Savory Aberdeen Beef Pie with Crispy Bacon Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 0.25 pound Bacon (diced); 3 pounds Beef stew meat (cut into 1-inch cubes); 1 cup Chopped onion; 1.5 cups Fresh baby carrots (halved); 6 tablespoons All-purpose flour; 1 cup Beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 package (10 ounces) Frozen peas; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Pepper; 1 sheet Refrigerated pie crust; 1 large Egg (lightly beaten (optional))

When I first tasted Aberdeen Beef Pie, I was instantly transported to a cozy, rustic kitchen, where the rich scent of slow-cooked beef and smoky bacon intertwined with hearty vegetables. One chilly evening, I found myself longing for something warm and comforting. I wanted a dish that would not only satisfy my hunger but also lift my spirits. As I rummaged through my pantry, I conjured up this delightful pot pie—one that combines tender beef and crispy bacon enveloped in a flaky crust, making for a dish that feels both indulgent and homey.

This Aberdeen Beef Pie quickly became a family favorite, and it’s easy to see why. With just a handful of simple ingredients and about half an hour of cooking time, this recipe transforms your dinner into a heartwarming feast, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring solo. So, if you’re tired of the same old takeout and ready to bring a delicious, homemade twist to your dinner table, let’s dive into this comforting delight!

Why is Aberdeen Beef Pie a Must-Try?

Comforting warmth: This dish envelops you in a cozy embrace with each bite of tender beef and smokey bacon.
Easy prep: With a quick cooking time of just 25-30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time!
Flaky crust: The golden-brown pie crust adds an irresistible texture that complements the savory filling perfectly.
Family favorite: Everyone from kids to adults will delight in this flavorful pie, making it an ideal choice for shared meals.
Versatile ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or even experiment with different cuts of meat for a personalized twist.
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this delicious recipe that pulls off gourmet comfort food effortlessly!

Aberdeen Beef Pie Ingredients

• Discover the perfect blend of flavors!

For the Filling

Bacon – 1/4 pound, diced; adds a smoky richness to the filling.
Beef stew meat – 3 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes; the heart of this pie with tender texture.
Chopped onion – 1 cup; provides a sweet and savory flavor base.
Fresh baby carrots – 1-1/2 cups, halved; adds a pop of color and natural sweetness.
All-purpose flour – 6 tablespoons; thicken the filling beautifully.
Beef broth – 1 cup; infuses the pie with a deep, hearty flavor.
Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon; enhances umami and richness.
Frozen peas – 1 package (10 ounces); brings a fresh element to the dish.
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon; balances the flavors perfectly.
Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon; adds a fragrant spice kick.

For the Crust

Refrigerated pie crust – 1 sheet; saves time and gives you a flaky, golden finish.
Egg – 1 large, lightly beaten (optional); gives the crust a beautiful, glossy sheen when baked.

This well-rounded list of Aberdeen Beef Pie ingredients makes cooking this comforting dish a breeze!

How to Make Aberdeen Beef Pie

Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crisp. This will add a delicious smoky flavor, so don’t forget to drain it on paper towels, leaving those tasty drippings behind!
Brown the Beef: In the same skillet, add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides. This step builds a rich flavor base, making sure each bite is succulent and satisfying.
Sauté the Veggies: Stir in the chopped onion and halved baby carrots. Cook until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through.
Thicken the Filling: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring well to coat. This will help thicken the filling and create a luscious texture you’ll love.
Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce while stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes, ensuring it’s nice and hearty.
Incorporate Peas: Add the frozen peas, salt, and pepper into the mix. Stir everything together to meld those wonderful flavors, letting it simmer for another minute.
Fill the Pie Dish: Pour the savory filling into a pie dish. Now it’s time to cover it with the refrigerated pie crust, sealing the edges to trap all that deliciousness inside!
Egg Wash (Optional): Brush the crust with the beaten egg if you desire that golden, glossy finish. It definitely adds a nice touch to your presentation!
Bake to Perfection: Place your pie in a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Aberdeen Beef Pie?

There’s something magical about pairing dishes that complement each other—a true feast for your senses.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes brings a comforting sidekick to the hearty pie, making every bite feel indulgent.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic offer a fresh, crunchy contrast that brightens the rich flavors of the pie.
Savory Biscuit Roll-Ups: Light, flaky biscuits filled with herbs add a fun twist, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that flavorful filling.
Radish Salad: A refreshing blend of sliced radishes and mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette cuts through the richness, creating a delightful balance on the plate.
Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine works wonders with the savory profile of the beef and bacon, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, serve warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to round out the meal with a sweet, comforting finish.

Each of these pairings enhances the comforts of the Aberdeen Beef Pie, inviting warmth and joy to your dining table.

How to Store and Freeze Aberdeen Beef Pie

Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours to maintain its delicious flavors.

Fridge: Store any leftover Aberdeen Beef Pie in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld nicely overnight!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie unbaked or baked, tightly wrapped in plastic and aluminum foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Bake reheated slices in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy again. Enjoy that comforting taste anytime!

Expert Tips for Aberdeen Beef Pie

Perfect Browning: Ensure the beef is browned well before adding other ingredients. This step enhances the flavor of your Aberdeen Beef Pie.
Make it Thick: Don’t rush when adding flour. Stir it in thoroughly before adding broth to prevent lumps and achieve that luscious filling you want.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables whenever possible for a brighter flavor in your pie. Slightly undercooking them before they go in will keep vegetables vibrant.
Crust Perfection: Don’t stretch the pie crust too thin—keep it thick enough to hold the filling and achieve that flaky texture.
Stay Vigilant: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is unique. You want a golden brown crust but not overbaked.
Let it Rest: Allow your Aberdeen Beef Pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set slightly, making for cleaner slices.

Make Ahead Options

These Aberdeen Beef Pie components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the filling—bacon, beef, onions, carrots, peas, and seasonings—up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the filling as instructed, let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve, pour the chilled filling into the pie dish, cover with the pie crust, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy with minimal fuss, just as delicious as if you made it from scratch that same day!

Aberdeen Beef Pie Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own; it’s a perfect canvas for delightful twists!

Vegetarian: Swap out the beef and bacon for mushrooms and lentils to create a hearty, plant-based filling.
Heat Level: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up for a warming kick.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary into the filling for an aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
Extra Veggies: Toss in diced potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition; don’t be shy!
Cheesy Delight: Blend in shredded cheese, like cheddar or Gruyère, before baking for a creamy, indulgent layer.
Pantry Swap: If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable stock can work too, each offering a different yet complementary flavor.
Whole Wheat Crust: Choose a whole wheat pie crust for a heartier, nutty flavor that adds depth to the pie.
Fruit Twist: A hint of diced apple or pear can provide a unique sweetness, surprisingly complementing the savory filling beautifully.

These variations will not only personalize your Aberdeen Beef Pie but also invite in new flavors that your family will love!

Aberdeen Beef Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for Aberdeen Beef Pie?
Absolutely! The ideal choice for Aberdeen Beef Pie is beef stew meat, as it’s cut into 1-inch cubes and becomes tender when cooked. This ensures each bite is succulent and full of flavor. You can also use chuck roast or brisket for a richer taste if you prefer.

How should I store leftover Aberdeen Beef Pie?
To keep your delicious pie fresh, wrap any leftover Aberdeen Beef Pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually improve overnight, so it’s perfect for meal prep!

Can I freeze Aberdeen Beef Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pie either unbaked or baked. If freezing unbaked, wrap it tightly in plastic and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. For the best quality, consume within 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking according to the recipe.

What if my filling is too watery?
No worries! If your filling turns out too watery when making Aberdeen Beef Pie, you can always thicken it. Start by simmering the mixture on medium heat and letting it reduce for an additional 5-10 minutes. If it’s still not thickening, stir in a slurry of equal parts flour and cold water, whisking until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Very! Aberdeen Beef Pie is a family favorite, loved by both kids and adults. It’s a great way to introduce them to hearty vegetables and meat in a fun, flaky crust. Just be cautious with spice levels—keeping it mild ensures even the pickiest eaters will enjoy it.

How do I know when my pie is done baking?
To know when your Aberdeen Beef Pie is perfectly done, look for a golden brown crust and bubbling filling. Bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. If you want to be doubly sure, you can use a food thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for it to be safely enjoyed.