Mini Meat Pies with Ground Beef and Pork

Jump to Recipe

Simple and delicious mini meat pies filled with a flavorful mixture of seasoned ground beef and pork, wrapped in flaky puff pastry, and baked until perfectly golden. These bite-sized pastries make a delicious appetizer, a perfect party snack, or a light meal for any occasion.

These mini meat pies are the perfect appetizer for parties, family gatherings, or a comforting homemade snack. Made with a flavorful filling of ground beef and pork seasoned with garlic, onion, tomato, parsley, and nutmeg, then wrapped in golden puff pastry, these mini pies are crispy on the outside and deliciously rich inside.

Inspired by traditional Portuguese savory pastries, these easy mini meat pies are perfect for making ahead and serving warm or at room temperature. Crispy, flaky, and filled with a rich and flavorful meat filling, they're a delicious way to enjoy comforting homemade food. If you're planning a party or family gathering, be sure to also try this delicious and simple Stuffed Bread, Ham and Cheese Puffs, or Easy Tuna Fritters for an irresistible selection of appetizers.

Mini Meat Pies on a plate

Ingredients for Mini Meat Pies with Ground Beef and Pork

Here you'll find all the ingredients needed to make this recipe:

Ground beef - Provides rich flavor and a firm texture to the filling. Creates the main flavorful base of the mini pies.
Ground pork - Adds moisture, tenderness, and extra flavor to the filling. Combined with beef, it creates a juicier and more balanced meat mixture.
Olive oil - Used to cook the onion and tomato, helping release their flavors while adding richness and a smooth texture to the filling.
Onion - When cooked slowly, it creates a flavorful base for the meat filling.
Garlic - Gives the filling an aromatic flavor and enhances the taste of the meat and spices.
Parsley - Adds freshness and a light herbal flavor.
Pepper - Provides a spicy touch and enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
Egg yolks - Used to brush the pastry before baking, helping create a golden and shiny crust. They also add creaminess and flavor to the meat filling.
Nutmeg - Adds a delicious aroma that complements the beef and pork filling.
Frozen puff pastry - Creates the golden crust exterior that surrounds the flavorful meat filling. It makes the mini pies light, crispy, and easy to prepare.
Tomatoes - Add moisture, flavor, and color to the filling. They help create a flavorful sauce that keeps the meat tender.
Salt - Enhances all the other flavors and brings out the taste of the meat.

Below you’ll find the correct measurement of all ingredients and the step-by-step guide for this recipe.

How to Make Mini Meat Pies with Ground Beef and Pork

Step 1: In a large bowl, season the meat with salt, chopped garlic, pepper, nutmeg, and an egg yolk. Mix well until all the seasonings are evenly incorporated and set aside.

Step 2: Add the olive oil, chopped onion, and peeled tomatoes cut into small pieces to a large saucepan. Cook over low heat until the tomatoes start to break down, stirring occasionally. Add the ground meat, mix well, and cook over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked and the flavors are well combined. Remove from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley.

Step 3: Preheat the oven to 180ºC (350ºF). Grease the mini pie pans with butter.

Step 4: Place the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it out with a rolling pin. Using a knife, cut small circles of pastry, approximately 3 cm (1 1/4 inches) in diameter.

Step 5: Place the pastry circles into the greased muffin tins and press them gently with your fingers, covering the bottom and sides completely. Prick the bottom of each pastry mold with a fork.

Step 6: Fill each pie with the meat mixture and cover with smaller pastry circles. Press the edges lightly with your fingers to seal the pies. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg yolk and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.

Variations

• Chicken Mini Meat Pies - Replace the beef and pork filling with shredded cooked chicken seasoned with garlic, onion, parsley and spices.

• Cheesy Mini Meat Pies - Add grated cheese such as mozzarella or Parmesan cheese to the meat filling before closing the pies.

• Vegetable Meat Pies - Add finely chopped carrots, mushrooms, or peas to the filling for extra texture and nutrition.

• Leftover Roast Meat Pies - Use leftover cooked beef, pork, or chicken instead of ground meat for a delicious way to transform leftovers into flavorful homemade mini pies.

Tips for Mini Meat Pies

• Use a combination of beef and pork – Mixing ground beef and pork creates a more flavorful and juicy filling. The pork adds moisture, while the beef provides a rich taste.

• Cook the filling until most of the liquid evaporates – Allow the meat mixture cook over low until it absorbs all the liquid. A filling that is too moist can make the puff pastry soggy.

• Let the filling cool before assembling the pies – Hot filling can soften the pastry and make it harder to shape. Letting it cool slightly helps keep the puff pastry flaky and crisp.

• Do not overfill the mini puff pastries – Add just enough filling to close the pies easily, without forcing the edges open during baking.

• Seal the edges well – Press the pastry edges firmly with your fingers to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

• Brush with egg yolk for a golden finish – A light coating of egg yolk gives the mini pies a shiny, golden appearance.

FAQs

Can I use only ground beef for mini meat pies?

Yes. You can replace the beef and pork mixture with only ground beef. However, using both types of meat results in a richer flavor and a more flavorful filling.

What pastry is best for mini meat pies?

Puff pastry creates a light and flaky crust, but you can also use shortcrust pastry if you prefer a more traditional pie texture.

What can I serve with mini meat pies?

Serve them with a fresh green salad, tomato salad, roasted vegetables, or as a simple appetizer.