Step-by-step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to prepare this delicious meat pie:
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures your pie cooks evenly.
Prepare Your Pan: Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy removal later on.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Shape the Meat Mixture: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Pour this glaze over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly.
Bake: Place the meat pie in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and the glaze is caramelized.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for cleaner slices.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving meat pie, the options are endless. Slide a generous slice onto a plate and pair it with fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery corn, or a fresh garden salad. For an authentic touch, consider serving it with a side of rich gravy or a dollop of creamy mashed peas. Your family will love the cozy presentation!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To properly store your leftover meat pie, cool it completely before refrigerating. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to wrap it securely to prevent freezer burn.
Pro Chef Tips
Sauté your onions and garlic before mixing them into the meat. This enhances their flavor and adds depth to the pie.
Experiment with spices! Try adding some smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky flavor twist.
If you want a crustier exterior, consider adding a thin layer of crushed crackers or thinly sliced potatoes on top before baking.
Creative Twists
Feel like shaking things up? Consider these variations:
- Vegetary Twist: Swap the ground beef for lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese within the meat mixture for a gooey surprise.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The overall preparation time is about 20-25 minutes, with a baking time of 60-70 minutes.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes, as well as plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat, cover the pie with aluminum foil and warm it in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Enjoy making this meat pie in the oven, and share it with those you love! Happy cooking!
