When the chill of autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm Scotch Pie in hand. I still recall the first time I savored this delightful treat at a local bakery—it was a simple bite of flaky pastry cradling flavorful, seasoned meat that transformed my palate. Inspired by that unforgettable experience, I set out to recreate it in my own kitchen, and I couldn’t be happier with the result!
This Scotch Pie recipe brings together tender ground lamb (or beef) with a blend of spices that will remind you of cozy family gatherings. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but the best part is how deceptively easy it is to make; perfect for impressing friends at dinner or simply enjoying a comforting meal at home. Packed with flavor and wrapped in homemade pastry, these little pies are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious endeavor that elevates home-cooked comfort food!
Why is Scotch Pie a must-try?
Satisfying Comfort: These pies are the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for chilly evenings.
Homemade Goodness: The flaky pastry paired with rich, seasoned meat creates an irresistible homemade treat.
Deceptively Simple: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these pies, regardless of cooking skills!
Versatile Filling: Whether you prefer lamb, beef, or even pork, this recipe adapts to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve them at parties or family gatherings; they’re guaranteed to impress!
Elevate your cooking game by trying out this delightful Scotch Pie recipe that turns comfort food into an art form.
Scotch Pie Ingredients
For the Pastry
• All-purpose flour – offers the perfect base for that flaky crust.
• Lard or butter – use lard for a traditional taste or butter for a richer flavor.
• Boiling water – ensures a smooth dough that’s easy to roll out.
• Salt – enhances all the delightful flavors in the pastry.
For the Filling
• Ground lamb or beef – choose lamb for a traditional Scotch Pie, or beef for a milder taste.
• Onion, finely chopped – adds a savory depth to the filling.
• White pepper – gives just the right amount of warmth without overpowering.
• Black pepper – adds a familiar kick of flavor.
• Ground mace – provides a subtle nutmeg-like fragrance.
• Ground nutmeg – enhances the aromatic profile of the filling.
• Egg, beaten – acts as a glazing agent for a lovely golden crust.
Get ready to whip up a batch of these delightful Scotch Pies that bring warmth and flavor to your kitchen!
How to Make Scotch Pie
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Make the Pastry: In a saucepan, heat lard (or butter) with boiling water until just bubbling. Quickly pour this mixture over flour mixed with half of the salt in a bowl. Stir until it cools, then knead it until smooth.
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Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the ground lamb (or beef/pork) with finely chopped onion, white pepper, black pepper, mace, nutmeg, and the remaining salt. Combine well until everything is evenly mixed.
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Shape the Pies: Roll out the prepared pastry to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles sufficient to cover the base and top of the pies. Line pie rings or muffin tins with the larger circles for the bases.
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Fill and Seal: Spoon the meat filling generously into the pastry cases. To seal, moisten the edges of the base with a little water, place the tops on, and pinch or crimp the edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking.
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Bake: Brush the tops of the pie with the beaten egg for a lovely golden shine. Place them in the oven and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the pies to cool for a few minutes before gently removing them from their molds. They can be served hot, warm, or even at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.
Optional: Serve with a side of homemade gravy for an extra cozy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Scotch Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this classic dish; the possibilities are deliciously endless!
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Lamb Alternative: Swap lamb for ground turkey for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or chickpeas mixed with spices for a hearty, plant-based filling that’s still satisfying.
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Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) into the filling for a gooey, indulgent twist.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat filling for a fragrant flavor enhancement.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a little heat in their savory treat.
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Potato Surprise: Blend in some mashed potatoes with the meat filling for extra creaminess and texture.
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Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or chopped bacon to the filling for a wonderfully rich and smoky depth.
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Sweet & Savory: Toss in some dried cranberries or sweet chutney in the filling for a delightful sweet contrast to the savory meat.
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these variations that take your Scotch Pie to the next level!
How to Store and Freeze Scotch Pie
Room Temperature: Enjoy Scotch Pies fresh out of the oven for best flavor, but you can store them at room temperature for up to 2 hours before they should be refrigerated.
Fridge: Place leftover Scotch Pies in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness before serving.
Freezer: Scotch Pies freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To bring back that lovely flaky crust, reheat Scotch Pies in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Expert Tips for Perfect Scotch Pie
• Chill Your Ingredients: Keep your lard or butter cold for a flakier pastry. Room temperature fat can lead to a tougher crust.
• Season Generously: Adjust the spices in your filling to taste; don’t be afraid to experiment for the best Scotch Pie flavor!
• Avoid Overfilling: Use just enough meat filling to leave space for sealing; overstuffing can cause the pies to burst while baking.
• Proper Sealing: Ensure edges are moistened before crimping; this prevents your Scotch Pie from falling apart.
• Watch the Bake Time: Ovens may vary, so check for a golden brown crust to know when they’re perfectly baked. Enjoy your delicious Scotch Pies with confidence!
Make Ahead Options
These Scotch Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the pastry dough and the filling up to 24 hours in advance—simply refrigerate them separately in airtight containers to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to assemble, roll out the pastry and cut out your pie shapes, fill them, and bake. For best results, brush the tops with beaten egg just before baking to achieve that golden finish. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade Scotch Pie without the rush, bringing warmth and comfort to your family meals with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Scotch Pie?
Savoring Scotch Pies can be even more delightful when paired with the right sides and drinks that elevate the meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, smooth potatoes create a comforting contrast to the flaky pastry of the pies, absorbing all those savory juices.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a fresh crunch, complementing the rich filling and bringing a burst of color to your plate.
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Rich Gravy: A warm, homemade gravy drizzled over the Scotch Pie adds moisture and an extra depth of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
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Hearty Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with tangy vinaigrette will brighten up your meal and provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the pies.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet and caramelized root vegetables like carrots and parsnips add a sweet earthiness that pairs beautifully with the savory filling.
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Hot Apple Cider: The warm spices in apple cider enhance the cozy vibe, making it the perfect drink to enjoy alongside your delicious Scotch Pies.
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Mini Fruit Tarts: Conclude your meal with these delightful bites of sweetness, offering a lovely contrast with their flaky crusts filled with creamy custard.
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Dark Chocolate Stout: Pairing a rich stout with flavors of chocolate complements the hearty filling, making for a perfect dessert-like drink after the meal.
Scotch Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of meat is best for Scotch Pie?
Absolutely! Traditionally, Scotch Pies are made with ground lamb, which offers a unique richness. However, ground beef or even pork can be delicious alternatives if you prefer a milder flavor. The choice really depends on your personal taste!
How should I store leftover Scotch Pies?
After enjoying your Scotch Pies, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigeration. To enjoy them later, just reheat them in the oven to restore their delicious, flaky crust!
Can Scotch Pies be frozen?
Very! Scotch Pies freeze wonderfully. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
How do I prevent my Scotch Pies from bursting during baking?
To avoid any bursting, ensure that you’re not overfilling your pie cases. When adding the meat filling, leave a small gap at the top to allow for expansion as they bake. Don’t forget to moisten the edges of the pastry before sealing them together—this helps keep everything snug.
What can I serve with Scotch Pies?
I recommend pairing your Scotch Pies with a side of homemade gravy for that extra cozy touch! A simple salad or some roasted vegetables can also complement the rich flavors beautifully. The more, the merrier for a complete meal that your friends and family will love!
Delicious Scotch Pie Recipe for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, heat lard (or butter) with boiling water until just bubbling. Quickly pour this mixture over flour mixed with half of the salt in a bowl. Stir until it cools, then knead it until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ground lamb (or beef/pork) with finely chopped onion, white pepper, black pepper, mace, nutmeg, and the remaining salt. Combine well until everything is evenly mixed.
- Roll out the prepared pastry to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles sufficient to cover the base and top of the pies. Line pie rings or muffin tins with the larger circles for the bases.
- Spoon the meat filling generously into the pastry cases. To seal, moisten the edges of the base with a little water, place the tops on, and pinch or crimp the edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking.
- Brush the tops of the pie with the beaten egg for a lovely golden shine. Place them in the oven and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown.
- Allow the pies to cool for a few minutes before gently removing them from their molds. They can be served hot, warm, or even at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.