Easy Steak and Kidney Pie Recipe: A Hearty British Classic Made Simple

Looking for a classic British comfort food that's both hearty and delicious? This easy steak and kidney pie recipe is just what you need! With tender beef, flavorful kidney, and a rich gravy encased in a flaky pie crust, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.

In this recipe, we’ll show you how to prepare this British favorite with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Ingredients for Easy Steak and Kidney Pie

To make this easy steak and kidney pie, you will need the following ingredients:

1 lb stewing beef (cut into cubes)
1/2 lb beef kidney (cleaned and cut into cubes)
1 large onion, chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 sheets of ready-made puff pastry (or shortcrust pastry if preferred)
1 egg (beaten, for glazing)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Easy Steak and Kidney Pie

Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by cutting the beef and kidney into bite-sized cubes. Chop the onion and set aside.
Brown the Meat: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef and kidney cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
Cook the Onion: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to form a paste. Slowly add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
Combine Meat and Gravy: Return the browned beef and kidney to the pan with the gravy. Stir to coat the meat evenly, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together. Set aside to cool.
Assemble the Pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one sheet of puff pastry and line a pie dish with it. Spoon the cooled steak and kidney filling into the pastry-lined dish.
Top the Pie: Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the filling. Trim the excess pastry and pinch the edges to seal the pie. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Glaze and Bake: Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg to give it a golden, glossy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy this easy steak and kidney pie with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables.

Tips for Making the Best Easy Steak and Kidney Pie

Use quality beef and kidney: For the best flavor, use fresh beef and kidney, and make sure the kidney is properly cleaned to avoid any unpleasant taste.
Let the filling cool: Before assembling the pie, make sure the filling has cooled to avoid making the pastry soggy.
Customize the pastry: If you prefer a flakier texture, use puff pastry. For a denser, more traditional crust, opt for shortcrust pastry instead.

FAQ About Easy Steak and Kidney Pie

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! If you're not a fan of kidney, you can substitute with more beef or even lamb for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I freeze steak and kidney pie?

Yes! After baking, let the pie cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the filling up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the pie and bake when you're ready.

4. How can I make the pie spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the gravy. You can also add some chili flakes for an extra kick.

5. Can I use homemade pastry instead of store-bought?

Of course! If you prefer homemade pastry, simply use your favorite shortcrust or puff pastry recipe and follow the same assembly steps.

Easy Steak and Kidney Pie Recipe: A Hearty British Classic Made Simple