When the air turns crisp and the days get shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty snack to brighten your evening. That’s how I found myself diving into my family’s cherished recipe for Nana’s Little Mince Savouries. These delightful savory pies are more than just a comforting bite; they’re a celebration of home-cooked love wrapped in flaky pastry. With a rich filling of seasoned beef, tender vegetables, and a touch of Parmesan cheese, these little gems are bound to steal the show, whether at cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.
What I adore about this recipe is how quickly it comes together—perfect for those busy weeknights when takeout just won’t cut it. You can prep the filling ahead of time, making it a breeze to assemble and toss them in the oven right before guests arrive. Each savory pie promises to melt in your mouth, making them a family favorite for generations. So, let’s dust off those aprons and bring a taste of nostalgia to your kitchen with Nana’s Little Mince Savouries!
Why will you love Nana’s little mince savouries?
Quick Cooking Time: Whip these up in under an hour—ideal for busy weeknights.
Family Tradition: This recipe carries the warmth and comfort of generations past.
Savory Perfection: Each bite delivers a mouthwatering blend of beef and spices.
Versatile Filling: Customize with veggies or meats to suit your taste!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance for easy entertaining without the fuss.
Get ready to impress your loved ones with these delightful savory pies that are sure to become a staple in your home cooking!
Nana’s Little Mince Savouries Ingredients
Get ready to create these delightful, savory pies with ingredients you’ll love!
For the Filling
- Oil – Cooking fat for sautéing; use olive oil or vegetable oil for a lighter option.
- Onion – Adds flavor and texture; shallots are a great substitute for a milder taste.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; opt for fresh garlic for the best infusion.
- Carrot – Adds sweetness and color; feel free to swap with bell pepper if you prefer.
- Beef Mince – The main protein and filler; ground turkey or chicken works for a leaner dish.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Offers acidity and depth; red wine vinegar can serve as a substitute.
- Water – Helps moisten the filling and ensures a perfect consistency.
- Bay Leaf – Adds a lovely fragrance; dried thyme or oregano can introduce new flavors.
- Sea Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
For the Pastry
- Puff Pastry – Provides that signature flaky crust; use homemade or store-bought, or try phyllo for a different texture.
- Parmesan Cheese – Topping for richness and umami flavor; grated cheddar or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives.
For Garnishing (Optional)
- Chargrilled Red Pepper – Adds vibrant color and additional flavor.
- Basil Leaves – Freshness and visual appeal to elevate your savouries.
These Nana’s Little Mince Savouries will be a hit at your next gathering, blending comfort with delightful flavors!
How to Make Nana’s Little Mince Savouries
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Prepare Filling: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrot until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
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Cook Mince: Add the beef mince to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it for a leaner filling.
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Season: Stir in the balsamic vinegar, add water, bay leaf, sea salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat until the liquid reduces slightly, about 10 minutes.
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Assemble Pies: Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or a glass. Place a spoonful of the mince mixture in the center of each circle, then top with grated Parmesan cheese.
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Bake: Arrange the filled pastry circles on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
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Cool Before Serving: Remove the savouries from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. This makes them easier to handle and enjoy!
Optional: Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Nana’s Little Mince Savouries
- Avoid Soggy Pastry: Ensure no excess liquid in the meat filling; drain any fat to keep the pastry flaky and crisp.
- Perfectly Rolled Pastry: Aim for even thickness while rolling your puff pastry, as this enhances flakiness during baking.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the pies to cool slightly after baking. Hot filling may make them difficult to eat, so patience pays off!
- Play with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to customize; try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even diced jalapeños for a flavorful twist in your Nana’s little mince savouries.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different, and a golden brown color typically indicates they’re ready!
Make Ahead Options
These Nana’s Little Mince Savouries are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance—simply cook it as usual, allow it to cool, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The puff pastry can also be rolled and cut ahead of time; store the circles in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, fill the pastry rounds with the chilled beef mixture, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake them for about 20 minutes. This way, you’ll have delicious savouries that are just as mouthwatering as if you made them last minute, all while enjoying the convenience of meal prep!
What to Serve with Nana’s Little Mince Savouries?
Creating a cozy meal around these savory pies can transform any gathering into a heartwarming experience.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens adds a delightful crunch and balances the richness of the savouries.
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Garlic Bread: The warmth and butteriness of garlic bread perfectly complement the savory filling, enhancing the overall indulgence.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and zucchini are a colorful side that brightens the plate while bringing out the cozy flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A side of velvety mashed potatoes provides a comforting foundation, soaking up the delicious juices from the savouries.
For a light, refreshing touch, consider pairing the savouries with a chilled cucumber salad. The cool, crisp cucumbers will balance the savory warmth, making for a delightful contrast in textures.
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Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine enhances the meaty flavors of the filling and adds a touch of elegance to your meal.
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Apple Pie: End on a sweet note with a slice of classic apple pie; the fruity tartness will perfectly round out the savory experience!
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Crusty Bread Rolls: These can be used to mop up any leftover filling flavors and make for a hearty addition to the table.
Nana’s Little Mince Savouries Variations
Feel free to make these delightful savouries your own by trying out these fun twists!
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Lamb Swap: Replace beef with minced lamb for a richer, more robust flavor that’s absolutely delicious. The natural fattiness will enhance the savory notes of the filling.
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the beef with a mix of lentils and vegetables. This addition not only makes it meat-free but packs in fiber and a wholesome texture.
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Mushroom Medley: Add diced mushrooms or sautéed spinach to the beef mixture for an earthy and nutritious twist. They’ll introduce extra moisture and flavor to your savouries!
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Spicy Kick: Spice up your filling with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for an exciting heat level. Perfect for those who adore a bit of zing in their dishes.
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix in a blend of cheeses such as feta or gouda along with the Parmesan for layered flavor and creaminess. Trust me, it’s an indulgent addition!
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Herb Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the aroma and depth of flavor in your savouries. A touch of freshness goes a long way!
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a splash of smoked paprika or a dollop of BBQ sauce into the filling for a smoky edge that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Puff Pastry Alternatives: Experiment with phyllo dough for a crispy layer or even try a homemade dough infused with herbs for a unique touch. Each variation can significantly shift your savoury experience!
Storage Tips for Nana’s Little Mince Savouries
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing the container.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked assembled savouries for up to 2 months. Place separated by parchment paper in a suitable freezer bag; no need to thaw before baking!
- Reheating: To reheat, place baked savouries in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their flaky texture.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling a day in advance and store in the fridge; this ensures quick assembly when you’re ready to enjoy your Nana’s little mince savouries!
Nana’s Little Mince Savouries Recipe FAQs
What type of beef mince should I use?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20. This will ensure your filling remains juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives, but they may result in a slightly drier filling.
How should I store leftovers of Nana’s Little Mince Savouries?
Absolutely! Once cooled, you can store your savouries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze Nana’s Little Mince Savouries?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, assemble the savouries but do not bake them. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Freeze for about 2 hours, then transfer to freezer bags. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How can I avoid soggy pastry in my savouries?
To keep that delightful flakiness, it’s essential to ensure there’s no excess liquid in your filling. If your mixture appears too wet, drain some of the liquid or allow it to simmer a bit longer to reduce. Additionally, try to roll your pastry to the desired thickness; thicker pastry can create moisture pockets. Lastly, avoid overfilling each savoury for the perfect golden crust!
Are there any dietary considerations for Nana’s Little Mince Savouries?
Yes! If you’re cooking for a gluten-free audience, you can use a gluten-free puff pastry available from most supermarkets. For those with dairy sensitivities, consider omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always check labels for allergens, as some ingredients like certain oil types can contain traces of allergens.
Can I customize the filling of Nana’s Little Mince Savouries?
Very much so! I often add a handful of spinach or finely chopped mushrooms to the filling for an extra nutritious boost. If you’d like to spice things up, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or Worcestershire sauce for a flavor kick. The more the merrier when it comes to flavors and enhancements!
Each of these tips helps ensure that your Nana’s Little Mince Savouries turn out delicious every time. Enjoy your cooking adventures!
Nana’s Little Mince Savouries: Quick Savory Pies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrot until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the beef mince to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally. If there's excess fat, feel free to drain it for a leaner filling.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar, add water, bay leaf, sea salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat until the liquid reduces slightly, about 10 minutes.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or a glass. Place a spoonful of the mince mixture in the center of each circle, then top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Arrange the filled pastry circles on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove the savouries from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. This makes them easier to handle and enjoy!
