If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that combines succulent steak, rich gravy, and a buttery, flaky pie crust, Jamie Oliver’s Steak and Pie recipe delivers a satisfying and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
What Is Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie
Jamie Oliver’s Steak and Pie is a delicious and rustic British dish that brings together tender, flavorful chunks of steak cooked in a rich, hearty gravy, enveloped in a golden, flaky pie crust. This dish is an ode to classic comfort food, offering layers of depth in flavor through slow-cooked meat and aromatic herbs. With the perfect balance of savory ingredients, the steak and pie becomes an indulgent meal, ideal for feeding a crowd or satisfying a hunger craving on a cozy evening.
Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie Recipe
Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Steak and Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Beef steak: Typically, a tender cut like sirloin or chuck steak works best. You’ll need about 1 kg of beef cut into bite-sized chunks.
- Onions: 2 medium onions, finely chopped, provide the base for the flavor.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, add an aromatic touch.
- Carrots: 2 medium carrots, sliced or chopped, for added sweetness and texture.
- Mushrooms: 200g of button or chestnut mushrooms, sliced, to bring an earthy flavor.
- Beef stock: 500 ml of rich beef stock to create the gravy base.
- Flour: 2 tablespoons of plain flour to thicken the gravy.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons to sauté the vegetables and add richness.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves for seasoning, bringing a warm, earthy fragrance.
- Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons to enhance the savory flavor.
- Red wine: A splash of red wine (optional, but it deepens the flavor of the gravy).
- Puff pastry: A sheet of ready-made puff pastry to top the pie, adding a light, crisp contrast to the savory filling.
- Egg: One egg, beaten, to brush over the pastry for a golden, shiny finish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, to season the filling and adjust the flavor balance.
Equipment Needed
To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Steak and Pie, gather the following kitchen equipment:
- Large frying pan or skillet: For browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
- Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed casserole dish: For simmering the steak and gravy, allowing the flavors to develop slowly.
- Rolling pin: If you prefer to roll out your own pastry, although store-bought puff pastry can be a great shortcut.
- Pie dish or ovenproof dish: A 9-inch pie dish is ideal for assembling and baking the pie.
- Pastry brush: For applying the egg wash to the pastry.
- Knife and chopping board: For chopping the steak, vegetables, and herbs.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For precise ingredient measurements.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie?
- Prepare the Steak and Filling: Start by heating some butter in a large pan over medium heat. Brown the steak in batches, ensuring each piece is seared nicely. Remove the steak and set it aside. In the same pan, add chopped onions, garlic, and carrots, sautéing until softened. Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture. Sprinkle in the flour to make a roux, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Simmer the Gravy: Gradually pour in the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Add the thyme, bay leaves, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Return the browned steak to the pan, cover, and let it simmer on low heat for about 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the gravy has thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom.
- Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas mark 6). Once the steak filling has cooked, transfer it to a pie dish, ensuring the filling is evenly spread. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, and place it over the dish, trimming the edges to fit. Press the edges down with a fork to seal, and make a small slit in the center of the pastry to allow steam to escape.
- Bake: Brush the top of the pastry with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed up.
- Serve: Let the pie cool slightly before serving. Slice into wedges and enjoy the rich, savory filling with the crispy pastry topping.
Expert Tips
- Use a variety of beef cuts: For extra tenderness and flavor, consider using a combination of cuts, such as beef chuck and brisket. These cuts are perfect for slow cooking and will add richness to the filling.
- Add a splash of red wine: Including a small amount of red wine in the gravy elevates the flavor by providing depth and complexity.
- Make it in advance: You can prepare the steak filling ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. This will give the flavors even more time to develop, and you can bake the pie when you’re ready to serve.
- Brush the pastry well: Don’t skimp on the egg wash! It will give the pie a beautiful golden color and a glossy finish. You can even sprinkle some sea salt on top for extra flavor.
- Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the meat to cook low and slow is key to achieving tender, melt-in-your-mouth steak. Patience pays off!
Jamie Oliver’s Steak and Pie is a masterful take on a classic British comfort food, combining rich flavors and satisfying textures. The slow-cooked beef, tender vegetables, and flaky pastry come together to create a dish that’s hearty, indulgent, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward yet offers plenty of room to experiment with your own twist. Try it out, and you’ll see why this recipe has become a favorite in many kitchens!.
Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie

Jamie Oliver’s classic steak and pie recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, but there are several creative variations you can explore to personalize the dish. These adjustments range from tweaking the ingredients to adding exciting flavors and textures. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Adding Cheese: A great way to elevate the pie is by incorporating cheese. Add a handful of sharp cheddar or crumbled blue cheese to the filling before sealing the pie. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, rich texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender steak.
- Mushroom Medley: If you’re a fan of mushrooms, add a medley of wild mushrooms such as shiitake, chanterelle, or portobello to the steak filling. Sauté them until golden brown and stir them into the filling for added umami and depth of flavor. The earthiness of mushrooms complements the beef beautifully.
- Herbs and Spices: While Jamie’s original recipe calls for basic seasoning, you can experiment with additional herbs and spices for complexity. Try fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. You could also add some Dijon mustard to the filling for an extra layer of tanginess.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version of the steak and pie, substitute the steak with hearty ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, and chunks of roasted root vegetables. To give it a similar texture, use a plant-based meat substitute, such as Beyond Meat, and follow the same steps for the filling and pastry.
- Steak and Ale Pie: For a deeper flavor profile, replace the stock with a dark ale or stout. The rich, malty flavor of the ale will enhance the meatiness of the steak and create a beautifully glossy sauce. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the added complexity of beer in their cooking.
- Shortcrust Pastry Swap: If you prefer a flakier crust, swap out the standard puff pastry for a buttery shortcrust pastry. This will give the pie a crispier, crunchier exterior while maintaining a rich, tender filling.
- Spicy Steak and Pie: Add a spicy twist by introducing a bit of chili heat. You can stir in chopped fresh chili peppers or use chili flakes in the filling. This pairs wonderfully with the richness of the beef, creating a flavorful and warming dish.
Best Practices To Store Leftovers
When you have leftover steak and pie, it’s essential to store it correctly to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are some best practices for storing your delicious meal:
- Cool It First: Before storing any leftovers, make sure to allow your pie to cool down to room temperature. Placing hot food in the fridge can raise the temperature inside the refrigerator, promoting bacterial growth.
- Use Airtight Containers: For optimal freshness, place your leftover steak and pie in airtight containers. This will help keep the pie crust from getting soggy and will preserve the flavors. You can also wrap individual portions in plastic wrap before placing them in containers.
- Refrigeration: Leftover steak and pie can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you don’t think you’ll be able to eat it within that time, freezing is a great option.
- Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life, freeze your leftovers. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best to freeze it before baking, but if you’ve already cooked the pie, it can still be frozen. Simply reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
- Reheating Tips: To preserve the pie’s texture, reheat it in the oven rather than the microwave. Place it on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave can be used, but it might make the crust a bit less crisp.
- Avoid Reheating Multiple Times: Try to only reheat the portions you plan on eating. Reheating the entire pie multiple times can result in a loss of flavor and texture.
What Goes Well With Steak And Pie?
The hearty, savory nature of steak and pie makes it a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some excellent accompaniments to elevate your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice to complement the rich filling of the pie. You can add a touch of garlic, butter, and cream to make them extra indulgent.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, are perfect for adding a little sweetness and earthiness to your meal. Their caramelized flavors balance the savory pie beautifully.
- Green Beans Almondine: A simple side of green beans sautéed with slivered almonds and butter adds a light, crisp contrast to the richness of the pie. The nutty almonds also provide an extra texture to the dish.
- Peas and Mint: For a fresh and zesty side, serve your pie with peas tossed in fresh mint. This side offers a burst of color and a refreshing note to balance the richness of the beef.
- A Simple Salad: A light salad with bitter greens like arugula, rocket, or watercress provides a sharp contrast to the meaty filling of the pie. Toss it with a light vinaigrette to cut through the heaviness.
- Gravy or Red Wine Sauce: If you’re looking to go all out, a rich gravy or a red wine reduction sauce will complement the steak and pie wonderfully. The depth of flavor in these sauces enhances the overall dish.
- Crusty Bread: If you want to add more carbs to the table, serve the pie with some crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping into any leftover gravy or sauce.
- A Glass of Red Wine: To complete your meal, pair the pie with a glass of bold red wine, such as a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. The wine’s rich tannins will complement the beefiness of the pie.
Conclusion
Jamie Oliver’s steak and pie is a comforting and versatile dish that you can tailor to suit your tastes with different ingredient variations. Whether you prefer a cheesy twist, a mushroom-filled pie, or a rich steak and ale version, there are endless ways to make this dish your own.
And with the right storage techniques, you can savor your leftovers without sacrificing flavor or texture. Don’t forget to pair your pie with complementary sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, and enjoy it with a glass of red wine for the perfect meal. Whether serving it for a casual dinner or a festive occasion, steak and pie is sure to satisfy.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie?
The main ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s steak and pie include steak (typically rump or chuck), onions, carrots, garlic, flour, butter, beef stock, red wine, thyme, and puff pastry. Some variations may also include mushrooms, peas, or cheese depending on personal preferences.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie?
The cooking process for Jamie Oliver’s steak and pie takes about 2 to 2.5 hours in total, including preparation and baking time. The pie is baked for about 40 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until the pastry is golden and crispy.
Can I Use Other Types Of Meat For Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie?
Yes, while the recipe traditionally uses beef steak, you can substitute it with other meats such as lamb, chicken, or even pork. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the type of meat used.
What Is The Best Type Of Steak To Use In The Recipe?
For the best results, Jamie Oliver recommends using cuts like rump or chuck steak, which are flavorful and become tender when slow-cooked. These cuts work well in the filling, offering a rich, hearty texture.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie Recipe More Flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding additional seasonings such as Worcestershire sauce, a touch of mustard, or a few bay leaves. You can also incorporate root vegetables like parsnips or swede for a deeper, earthy flavor.
Is There A Vegetarian Version Of Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie?
Yes, you can easily adapt Jamie Oliver’s steak and pie recipe into a vegetarian version by replacing the steak with mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable stock instead of beef stock for a fully vegetarian pie.
What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie?
This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with side dishes like mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with creamy coleslaw or steamed greens for added texture and flavor.
Can I Make The Filling Ahead Of Time For Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie?
Yes, you can prepare the steak filling in advance. After cooking it, allow it to cool, then refrigerate it for up to two days. When ready, simply assemble the pie and bake it as instructed.
How Do I Ensure The Puff Pastry On Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie Is Perfectly Golden?
To achieve a golden, crispy pastry, brush the top of the puff pastry with a beaten egg before baking. This will give the pastry a beautiful sheen and help it crisp up in the oven.
Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Steak And Pie For Later Use?
Yes, Jamie Oliver’s steak and pie freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to three months.
When ready to serve, bake from frozen at a lower temperature (around 160°C or 320°F) for 1.5 to 2 hours.