Desperate Dan Pie is a hearty meat pie that fills the kitchen with a warm, savory smell.
- Desperate Dan Pie introduction
- Desperate Dan Pie — why make this recipe
- Desperate Dan Pie — how to make Desperate Dan Pie
- Desperate Dan Pie Ingredients :
- Desperate Dan Pie Directions :
- Desperate Dan Pie — how to serve Desperate Dan Pie
- Desperate Dan Pie — how to store Desperate Dan Pie
- Desperate Dan Pie — tips to make Desperate Dan Pie
- Desperate Dan Pie — variation (if any)
- Desperate Dan Pie — FAQs
Desperate Dan Pie introduction
Desperate Dan Pie is a simple, filling pie with minced beef and flaky pastry. It is easy to make and good for family meals.
For a note on balancing rich meals with healthy choices, see how antioxidants help in a diet.
Desperate Dan Pie — why make this recipe
Make Desperate Dan Pie because it cooks fast and uses common ingredients. It makes a full meal with few steps.
- Uses one pan for the filling.
- Uses store-bought pastry to save time.
- Feeds a group and stores well.
Desperate Dan Pie — how to make Desperate Dan Pie
You will brown the beef, add simple seasonings, then bake inside pastry. The steps stay easy and clear.
For pastry tips and a similar pie method, check the creamy chicken, mushroom and vegetable pie article.
Desperate Dan Pie Ingredients :
- 500g minced beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sheet pie pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Desperate Dan Pie Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the minced beef and cook until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Roll out the pie pastry and place in a pie dish.
- Fill the pastry with the meat mixture.
- Cover with another sheet of pastry and seal the edges.
- Cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape and brush with beaten egg.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Desperate Dan Pie — how to serve Desperate Dan Pie
Serve Desperate Dan Pie hot with simple sides. A green salad or steamed vegetables balance the rich filling.
You can get serving ideas from a creamy pot pie style, for example see the creamy seafood pot pie for sauce and side ideas.
Desperate Dan Pie — how to store Desperate Dan Pie
Cool the pie before storing to keep texture. Store in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in fridge before reheating.
- Reheat in oven for best crispness.
Desperate Dan Pie — tips to make Desperate Dan Pie
Small tips make this pie better and easy to cook.
- Drain excess fat after browning beef for less grease.
- Let the filling cool a bit before using pastry to avoid soggy bottom.
- Brush the pastry with egg wash for a golden top.
Desperate Dan Pie — variation (if any)
Try small changes to suit taste or what you have.
- Add chopped carrots or peas for more veg.
- Use lamb or sausage for a different flavor.
- Add a little grated cheese under the top crust for extra richness.
Desperate Dan Pie — FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen pastry for Desperate Dan Pie?
A: Yes. Let it thaw just enough to roll, then follow directions. Frozen pastry saves time.
Q: How long does Desperate Dan Pie take to make?
A: About 40 minutes total: 10–15 minutes to cook filling and 25–30 minutes to bake.
Q: What dish should I bake Desperate Dan Pie in?
A: Use a good pie dish or oven-proof pan that fits the pastry and filling. Buy it here.
Q: Can I make Desperate Dan Pie ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble the pie, cover, and refrigerate for a day before baking. This makes dinner easy.

Desperate Dan Pie
Ingredients
Filling ingredients
- 500 g minced beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pastry ingredients
- 1 sheet pie pastry Store-bought pastry is recommended.
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the minced beef and cook until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes.
Assembling the Pie
- Roll out the pie pastry and place in a pie dish.
- Fill the pastry with the meat mixture.
- Cover with another sheet of pastry and seal the edges.
- Cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape and brush with beaten egg.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.

