Chinese Beef Puff Pastry Pies Recipe

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  • November 17, 2025
Breakfast

Chinese Beef Puff Pastry Pies Recipe (Crispy, Flaky & Flavor-Packed)

Chinese beef puff pastry pies are a delightful savory snack featuring buttery, flaky pastry wrapped around a rich, flavorful beef filling. As a chef, this is one recipe I’ve perfected over the years — and it continues to be one of my favorite savory pastry dishes.

What makes this recipe special is the perfect balance of textures: crisp golden layers on the outside and a juicy, aromatic filling on the inside. With classic Chinese spices, these pies offer an irresistible fusion of comfort and flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

These beef puff pastry pies are a success for several reasons:

  • Perfect flavor balance: Savory beef mixed with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

  • Flaky texture: Puff pastry bakes into buttery layers that pair beautifully with the rich filling.

  • Simple technique: Easy preparation, simple folding, and quick baking.

  • Versatile: Great as appetizers, snacks, or even a full meal.

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp grated ginger

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

  • 2 tbsp cornstarch

  • 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts

  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions

For the Pastry

  • 1 package puff pastry sheets, thawed

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef Filling

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.

  2. Brown the ground beef with onions, garlic, and ginger.

  3. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, water chestnuts, and green onions.

  4. Stir in cornstarch to thicken the mixture.

  5. Cook until the filling becomes glossy and slightly sticky.

  6. Set aside to cool completely.

2. Assemble the Pies

  1. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.

  2. Cut into circles or squares (your preferred shape).

  3. Place a spoonful of beef filling in the center of each piece.

  4. Fold over to seal, then crimp edges with a fork.

  5. Brush the tops with egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.

3. Bake

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

  • Arrange the pies and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

These savory pies pair wonderfully with:

  • A crisp green salad with vinaigrette

  • Garlic mashed potatoes

  • Miso soup

  • Kimchi fried rice

  • Steamed vegetables

They also make a delicious appetizer for parties or a quick lunchbox treat.

Key Ingredients Overview

Meat Filling

  • Ground Beef: Lean, seasoned, and juicy

  • Ginger: Freshly grated for warmth

  • Soy Sauce: Deep umami flavor

  • Water Chestnuts: Adds crunch

  • Green Onions: Fresh finishing aroma

Puff Pastry

  • Butter: Creates flaky layers

  • Flour: Structure

  • Egg wash: Golden brown shine

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of beef is best?

Lean ground beef works best, but finely diced sirloin or flank steak can also be used for a more authentic texture.

2. Can I make the pies ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Assemble and bake when needed.

3. How can I boost the flavor?

Add Chinese five-spice powder, extra ginger, oyster sauce, or even a touch of chili paste for heat.

4. What makes these pies different from Western savory pies?

They combine flakey pastry with Chinese seasoning, offering a fusion of East-meets-West flavors.

5. What can I serve them with?

Salads, broth-based soups, steamed greens, or enjoy them as a standalone snack.

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