Classic New Zealand Beef Mince & Cheese Pie
Few dishes are as iconic in New Zealand as the humble mince and cheese pie. Whether picked up from a local bakery on a road trip or baked fresh at home, it's a comforting classic that never goes out of style.
Making your own pie is surprisingly simple and allows you to use quality ingredients while creating enough for the whole family.
Ingredients
Filling
500g premium beef mince
1 onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef stock
1 tbsp cornflour mixed with 2 tbsp water
Salt and pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 cup grated tasty cheese
Pastry
2 sheets puff pastry
1 sheet shortcrust pastry
1 egg, beaten
Method
1. Cook the filling
Heat a splash of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Cook the onion until softened before adding the garlic.
Add the beef mince and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir through the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme and beef stock.
Allow the mixture to simmer for around 10 minutes.
Mix the cornflour with water and stir it into the mince until the filling becomes thick and rich.
Season with salt and pepper.
Allow the filling to cool before assembling the pie.
2. Assemble
Line a pie dish with the shortcrust pastry.
Spoon in half the mince mixture.
Sprinkle over half the grated cheese.
Repeat with the remaining mince and cheese.
Cover with puff pastry and press the edges firmly together.
Trim excess pastry and brush the top with beaten egg.
Cut a few small steam vents into the pastry.
3. Bake
Bake at 200°C for approximately 35–40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
Allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
Tomato sauce
Garden salad
Steamed vegetables
Creamy mashed potatoes
Fries for the ultimate bakery-style meal
FoodVault Tip
Many independent New Zealand brands offer premium sauces, cheeses, spices and pantry staples that can elevate simple recipes like this one.
Browsing FoodVault is a great way to discover local producers while enjoying exclusive member offers on ingredients you'll actually use.
