There’s something truly comforting about a classic steak pie — that golden, pastry crust giving way to tender pieces of beef nestled in a rich, savoury gravy. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly winter’s evening. This gluten-free version has become a firm family favourite in my home, loved just as much by the gluten-eaters as by those who need to avoid it. Simple, hearty, and made with love — it’s comfort food at its finest.
Prep Time ⏱️ – 2hr 30 minutes.
Cook Time 🔥 – 20 – 25 minutes.
Oven Temperature 🌡️ – 190°C
Ingredients 🧅.
- 2 Packs (600g each) British Lean Diced Beef.
- Olive Oil.
- Water.
- 1½ Beef Stock Pots.
- 3 tsp Beef Bisto Best (gluten-free gravy granules).
- Gluten-free pastry (this can be homemade or pre-made) I used 2 rolls of Just-Roll gluten-free pastry.
- 1 egg (for egg wash).
- 1 onion (optional).
- A splash of beer or wine (optional).
💡 Not gluten-free? You can easily swap the gravy and pastry for regular versions — it works beautifully either way!
Instructions 🥘
Step 1 – Prep the Beef – Start by trimming any excess fat from your diced beef. Keep as much of the good meat as possible – we want every bite to be tender and rich.
Step 2 – Brown the Meat – Heat a splash of olive oil in a large saucepan over high heat. Once the oil is simmering, add just enough beef to cover the bottom of the pan. Let the beef sear without moving it too much – you want those lovely caramelised edges for extra flavour.
Step 3 – Build the Flavour – Stir the beef with a wooden spoon, scraping up all the browning at the bottom of the pan. Don’t worry if it sticks a little – that’s where the magic happens! Repeat this process in batches, adding a touch more oil in between each one.
Step 4 – Set Aside the Cooked Beef – Once each batch is nicely browned, remove it from the pan and set aside on a plate.
Step 5 – Brown your Onion (Optional) – Chop up your onion into small pieces and add these to the same pan. Add a little more olive oil if necessary and sauté over a medium heat until they turn soft and slightly caramelised. This will build a lovely sweetness that will deepen the flavour of your filling. Once these are ready – leave them in the same pan ready for the next step.
Step 6 – Simmer the Filling – When all your beef is browned, return it to the pan. Add your stock pot, chopped and browned onion (optional), a splash of beer or wine (optional) if you fancy, and enough hot water to cover your meat. Give everything a good stir, scraping up all those delicious flavours from the bottom of the pan. Turn the heat down to a gentle simmer and let this bubble away for about 2 hours, or until the beef is beautifully tender.
Step 7 – Thicken and Cool – When your beef breaks apart easily with a fork, stir in the bisto best granules to thicken the gravy. Once everything is rich and glossy, turn off the heat and let this cool completely before assembling your pies.
Step 8 – Assemble your Pies Pt 1 – Preheat your oven to 190°C. Line your pie dishes with gluten-free pastry (for homemade see gluten free pastry recipe), pressing it gently into the corners. Trim any excess and save it for your pie lids. Spoon the cooled beef filling into the dishes — don’t overfill with gravy, as it can seep through the top pastry. Keep the leftover gravy warm in a jug for serving later.
Step 9 – Assemble your Pies Pt 2 – Brush the edges with beaten egg to help the lid of the pie stick, then top with your remaining pastry. Press and pinch the edges to seal, brush with more egg wash, and add a small vent or a decorative leaf cut out.
Step 10 – Bake to Perfection – Place your pies in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pastry is golden, crisp and smelling irresistible.
To Serve 🍽️ – Let the pies rest for a few minutes before cutting into them. Serve with your reserved gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, and maybe some roasted carrots for the full comfort-food experience.
A Note from My Kitchen 💛 – What I love most about this dish is how it brings people together. A staple meal. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner with family, a quiet night in, or a batch shared with friends, there’s something special about serving up a pie made from scratch. It’s honest, hearty and full of love — proof that gluten free cooking can be every bit as comforting and delicious as the classic dishes we remember.
From my kitchen to yours — lovingly homemade and Gorgeously Gluten Free 🧡 – Eve.
Gorgeously Gluten Free! 