Save A hearty, comforting pie featuring savory beef and vegetables beneath a golden, slightly sweet cornbread crust. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and delivers classic American flavors for everyone to enjoy.
I first made this beef pie on a chilly evening when our family needed something warm and satisfying. Everyone loved the contrast between moist beef and the sweet, tender crust.
Ingredients
- Beef Filling: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended), 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 medium carrot (diced), 1/2 cup frozen peas, 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, 1/4 cup tomato paste, 1 cup beef broth, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp olive oil
- Cornbread Crust: 1 cup (120 g) yellow cornmeal, 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter (melted)
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Instructions
- Prepare oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Cook vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and carrot. Sauté 3–4 minutes until softened
- Brown beef:
- Add ground beef. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed
- Add aromatics and seasonings:
- Stir in garlic, tomato paste, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute
- Simmer beef filling:
- Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, peas, and corn. Simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and transfer mixture to a 9-inch (23 cm) deep-dish pie pan or baking dish
- Prepare cornbread batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt
- Combine wet and dry ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, and melted butter. Add wet ingredients to dry and stir until just mixed (do not overmix)
- Layer cornbread crust:
- Pour cornbread batter evenly over the beef filling, spreading to cover completely
- Bake:
- Bake 25–30 minutes, or until cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted into the crust comes out clean
- Rest and serve:
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving
Save This pie brings everyone to the table and disappears quickly. It's a meal my kids request whenever the weather turns cool and we want something truly comforting.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pie with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), Milk, Eggs. May contain traces of soy depending on ingredient brands.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 420, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 39 g, Protein: 22 g.
Save This pie is sure to become a new weeknight favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What type of beef is best for this dish?
Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for optimal flavor and moisture balance in the filling.
- → Can I add spices for extra heat?
Yes, adding diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper boosts the flavor with a subtle kick.
- → How do I ensure the cornbread crust bakes evenly?
Spread the batter evenly over the filling and bake until a toothpick comes out clean and the crust is golden.
- → Is it possible to substitute the beef?
Ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter alternatives while maintaining moisture and texture.
- → What sides complement this main dish?
Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance flavors and add freshness.
- → How long should I let it rest before serving?
Allow about 10 minutes for the filling to set and make slicing easier, enhancing overall flavor.
