### Delicious Beef and Mushroom Pie: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Introduction
Beef and mushroom pie is a hearty, comforting classic that's perfect for chilly evenings or special family gatherings. This dish combines tender chunks of beef with savory mushrooms in a flaky crust, creating an unforgettable meal. Follow these steps to create your own delicious beef and mushroom pie.
#### Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as button, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 package frozen puff pastry (9 inches in diameter)
#### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Filling**
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. **Cook Vegetables**
- Add sliced onions and garlic to the same skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes or until softened.
- Stir in mixed mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown slightly.
- Mix in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. **Add Beef Broth**
- Pour in beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the liquid has reduced and the flavors have melded together.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using as the filling.
5. **Prepare the Puff Pastry**
- Unroll the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll it out into an 11-inch circle if needed.
- Place the uncooked pie crust on a baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough room for the edges.
6. **Assemble the Pie**
- Spoon the beef and mushroom mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving about 2 inches around the edge.
- Carefully fold the edges up to create a seal, pressing down lightly to ensure they stick together well.
7. **Bake the Pie**
- Brush the top of the pie with a beaten egg for a shiny finish and golden crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
8. **Serve Hot**
- Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly to handle safely, then cut into slices and serve hot with a side of mashed potatoes or green vegetables.
#### Tips
- For extra flavor, add some fresh thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture.
- Ensure that your pastry is chilled before rolling out to prevent it from becoming too soft during baking.
#### Conclusion
Enjoy this comforting beef and mushroom pie as a family meal or impress guests with its rich, savory flavors. With these simple steps, you can create a delicious pie that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Happy cooking!
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**Keywords**: Beef and mushroom pie recipe, flaky pastry, homemade pie crust, comfort food, cooking guide