The Irish (along with the British) have perfected the art of savory meat pies. Whether it’s encased in a flaky crust or topped with one, or simply topped with homey mashed potatoes, these savory pies are all a fantastic way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day (paired with a pint of Guinness, of course).
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RecipeShepherd’s Pot Pie
In this staple, red wine adds a deep mellow richness to a hearty beef filling. The creamy mashed potato topping, seasoned with sour cream and Parmigiano, is brightened with peas, but they can be omitted from the topping and added to the filling. This recipe also will make four generous individual pies or five slightly smaller pies. -
RecipeDingle Pies
These savory little pies, a specialty of the Dingle Peninsula and the surrounding region in County Kerry, are featured at the centuries-old Puck Fair every August. They were a popular food in general at public celebrations and on market days in the area, and were also taken up into the hills as lunch for local shepherds.
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RecipeAunty Mary’s Slow-Cooked Beef Potpie
To make a great potpie, the meat has to be cooked long and slow. You want it to be moist and succulent, so only use beef that has plenty of sinew and a little fat. Then the pieces of meat will stay together and not be stringy. The filling is just as good on thick slices of hot, buttered toast.
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RecipeSlow-Cooker Steak and Guinness Pie
This simple version of the classic Irish dish has the distinctive bitter flavor of Guinness stout. Although it’s slow-cooked, the hearty beef stew requires minimal prep time. When it’s ready, the puff pastry “tops” are baked separately and served alongside.
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RecipeClassic Chicken Pot Pie
This is the definitive pot pie recipe: a creamy chicken stew loaded with onions, peas, mushrooms, and carrots, and baked under a rich, flaky crust. It's comfort in a bowl. -
RecipeCottage Pie with Beef & Carrots
Cottage pie originated as a way to use up leftover beef stew, but why wait for leftovers? Here’s how to make the ultimate comfort meal from scratch.
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RecipeBeef Potpie
This classic, simple pie can be made with whatever vegetables you have on hand. -
RecipeRoasted Tomato Pie
If you're looking for a vegetarian version, this is your ticket: roasted plum tomatoes, caramelized onions, and plenty of cheddar make it just as rich and delicious as the meat-filled pies.
