Steak Bakes

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Steak Bakes are a deliciously savory pastry filled with tender, seasoned steak and rich gravy, all encased in a perfectly flaky, golden-brown crust. These handheld pies are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.

I first made Steak Bakes when I was craving a hearty, bakery-style treat, and they quickly became a household favorite. The combination of buttery, crisp pastry and flavorful, juicy steak filling is simply irresistible. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make at home—just a few simple ingredients come together to create something truly special.

What’s great about Steak Bakes is their versatility. Serve them fresh out of the oven with a side of salad or fries for a full meal, or grab one on the go for a quick and delicious bite. Whether you’re making them for dinner, a packed lunch, or just because you love a good pastry, these Steak Bakes are guaranteed to be a hit!

Perfect for:

  • Quick and satisfying meals
  • On-the-go lunches
  • Cozy dinners
  • Game nights
  • Meat lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Steak Bakes will become a favorite in your kitchen:

  • Flaky, Buttery Pastry: The puff pastry is crisp, golden, and irresistibly light.
  • Rich, Meaty Filling: Tender steak pieces are coated in a savory, well-seasoned gravy.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal effort yield delicious results.
  • Better than Store-Bought: Homemade steak bakes are fresher and more flavorful.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and freeze for a quick meal anytime.
  • Customizable Fillings: Adjust seasonings, add mushrooms, or mix in cheese for variety.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Great for parties, lunchboxes, or casual gatherings.
  • No Special Equipment Needed: All you need is an oven and a baking tray.
  • Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, hearty, and satisfying with every bite.
  • Pairs with Any Side: Serve with chips, salad, or mashed potatoes for a full meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 steak bakes
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

For the Steak Filling:

  • 1 cup diced steak (sirloin or ribeye)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ cup beef stock
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For the Pastry:

  • 1 sheet ready-made puff pastry
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Diced Steak: Ensures a tender, meaty bite in every piece.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami flavor of the gravy.
  • Puff Pastry: Creates a flaky, buttery exterior.
  • Cornstarch Slurry: Thickens the gravy for the perfect filling consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Steak Filling:

  1. Cook the Steak: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced steak and brown on all sides.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
  3. Season the Mixture: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme.
  4. Add Stock and Thicken: Pour in beef stock and bring to a simmer. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Let the filling cool completely.

Assemble the Steak Bakes:

  1. Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 4 equal rectangles.
  3. Fill and Seal: Spoon steak filling onto half of each rectangle, leaving a border. Fold over, press edges with a fork, and seal.
  4. Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush each bake with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake:

  1. Bake to Perfection: Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

  1. Enjoy Hot: Let cool slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Steak Bakes:

  • With Fries and Peas: A classic British pairing for a comforting meal.
  • Dipped in Gravy: Extra rich and indulgent.
  • With a Side Salad: Lightens up the dish for a balanced meal.
  • As a Quick Lunch: Perfect for a satisfying midday bite.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: Ultimate comfort food combination.
  • With Mushy Peas: A traditional side that complements the steak filling.
  • As a Pub-Style Snack: Serve with a pint of ale for a classic pairing.
  • With Coleslaw: Adds crunch and freshness.
  • With Cheese Melted Inside: For a gooey, extra-indulgent twist.
  • In a Picnic Basket: Perfect for an outdoor meal.

Additional Tips

  • Chill the Pastry – Keep your puff pastry cold before baking to ensure a crisp, flaky texture.
  • Season Well – Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the steak filling’s flavor.
  • Use a Cornstarch Slurry – If your filling is too runny, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in to thicken.
  • Pre-Cook the Filling – Simmer the steak mixture before assembling to avoid excess moisture leaking into the pastry.
  • Seal with an Egg Wash – Brushing the edges with beaten egg helps keep the filling intact while baking.
  • Score the Top – Lightly score the pastry with a knife to help steam escape and create a beautiful pattern.
  • Bake on a Hot Tray – Preheat your baking tray to ensure a crisp bottom crust.
  • Let It Rest – Allow the baked steak bakes to cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth.
  • Experiment with Fillings – Add mushrooms, onions, or a touch of mustard for extra depth of flavor.
  • Reheat Properly – If reheating, use an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave to maintain the pastry’s crispness.

Recipe Variations

  • Cheese & Onion Steak Bake – Add a layer of caramelized onions and shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, gooey twist.
  • Peppercorn Steak Bake – Mix your steak filling with a creamy peppercorn sauce for a bold, restaurant-style flavor.
  • Garlic Butter Steak Bake – Infuse your steak filling with garlic butter and a touch of parsley for extra depth and richness.
  • Mushroom & Swiss Steak Bake – Incorporate sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for an umami-packed bite.
  • Spicy Chipotle Steak Bake – Add chipotle sauce and jalapeños for a smoky, spicy kick.
  • Blue Cheese & Walnut Steak Bake – Crumble blue cheese into the filling and sprinkle in chopped walnuts for a gourmet variation.
  • BBQ Steak Bake – Toss the steak in tangy barbecue sauce and add crispy bacon bits for a sweet and smoky twist.
  • Philly Cheesesteak Bake – Use thinly sliced steak, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and provolone cheese for a Philly-inspired version.
  • Steak & Ale Bake – Simmer the steak in a rich ale-based gravy for a hearty, pub-style bake.
  • Asian-Style Teriyaki Steak Bake – Marinate the steak in teriyaki sauce and add sesame seeds and green onions for an Asian-inspired take.

Special Equipment

  • Rolling Pin – For rolling out puff pastry evenly.
  • Pastry Brush – To apply egg wash for a golden, crispy crust.
  • Sharp Knife or Pastry Cutter – For cutting the pastry into uniform shapes.
  • Baking Sheet – To bake the steak bakes evenly.
  • Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  • Meat Thermometer – Ensures the filling reaches a safe temperature.
  • Cooling Rack – Allows air to circulate, keeping the pastry crisp.
  • Mixing Bowl – For preparing the steak filling.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula – To stir and mix the filling thoroughly.
  • Fork – To crimp the pastry edges for a classic look and a secure seal.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use pre-cooked steak?
    Yes, but reduce the simmering time since it’s already cooked.
  2. How do I store leftover steak bakes?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  3. Can I freeze them?
    Yes, freeze unbaked or baked steak bakes for up to 2 months.
  4. What’s the best way to reheat steak bakes?
    Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
  5. Can I make these in an air fryer?
    Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes.
  6. Can I use shortcrust pastry instead of puff pastry?
    Yes, but it will have a denser texture.
  7. What other meats work in this recipe?
    Try ground beef, lamb, or even shredded turkey.
  8. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
    Absolutely! Peas, carrots, or mushrooms work well.
  9. Why is my pastry soggy?
    Make sure the filling is cool before assembling and avoid overfilling.
  10. Can I use store-bought steak pie filling?
    Yes, but homemade filling gives the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Steak Bakes are the ultimate comfort food—flaky, golden pastry filled with a rich, savory steak filling that’s packed with flavor. These handheld pies are crispy on the outside and filled with tender, juicy steak in a luscious gravy, making them perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.

Customize them by adding cheese for an extra indulgent bite, mushrooms for earthiness, or a touch of spice for heat. Serve them with a side of chips, a fresh salad, or a warm dipping sauce for the perfect pairing. Whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, these steak bakes are sure to hit the spot!

I can’t wait to see how your Steak Bakes turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations! And don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you made this recipe your own!