Nebraska Meat Pies: A Hearty Midwestern Tradition

Embark on a culinary journey through the heartland of America with our recipe for Nebraska Meat Pies. This hearty dish encapsulates the essence of Midwestern comfort food, combining a savory filling encased in a flaky pastry shell. Whether you have roots in Nebraska or simply crave a taste of Midwestern warmth, these meat pies are a delicious homage to the region’s culinary heritage. Join us as we guide you through the process of creating these savory delights that are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pastry:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup ice water

For the Keto and Low-Carb Version:

For the Keto Meat Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cauliflower, finely chopped
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Keto Pastry:

• 2 cups almond flour
• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon cold water

Instructions

Creating the Meat Filling:

1. Brown the Beef:
   • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add Vegetables:
   • Add chopped onions and diced potatoes to the skillet. Cook until onions are translucent and potatoes are slightly tender.
3. Pour in Broth:
   • Pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Simmer until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Preparing the Pastry:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (or almond flour for keto version) and salt.
2. Cut in the Butter:
   • Incorporate the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water:
   • Gradually add ice water to the mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assembling the Meat Pies:

1. Roll out the Dough:
   • On a floured surface, roll out one disc of pastry dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
2. Cut Circles:
   • Using a round cutter or a bowl, cut out circles from the rolled-out dough.
3. Fill and Seal:
   • Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape, and press the edges to seal.
4. Repeat:
   • Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
5. Bake to Perfection:
   • Place the assembled pies on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

For the Keto and Low-Carb Version:

Creating the Keto Meat Filling:

1. Keto Meat Magic:
   • Follow the same instructions as above for the keto version.

Preparing the Keto Pastry:

1. Keto Dough Creation:
   • Follow the same instructions as above for the keto version.

Keto Assembling the Meat Pies:

1. Keto Rolling and Cutting:
   • Follow the same instructions as above for the keto version.
2. Keto Fill and Seal:
   • Follow the same instructions as above for the keto version.
3. Keto Bake to Perfection:
   • Follow the same instructions as above for the keto version.

Cook Notes

• Filling Flavor Enhancement: Consider adding a dash of garlic powder or a sprinkle of dried thyme to the meat filling for an extra flavor boost.
• Pastry Texture Tips: For a flakier pastry, handle the dough as little as possible, and ensure the butter is cold when incorporating it into the flour.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Both the meat filling and pastry dough can be prepared in advance, making it convenient for busy days.

Variations

Keto Version:

• Keto Veggie Twist: Incorporate keto-friendly vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers into the meat filling for added texture.
• Keto Cheese Fusion: Sprinkle grated cheddar or mozzarella on top of the keto meat filling before sealing the pies for a cheesy delight.

Low-Carb Version:

• Low-Carb Veggie Medley: Mix in low-carb veggies such as zucchini or spinach to the meat filling for a nutrient-rich variation.
• Low-Carb Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or sage in the meat filling for a fragrant and savory twist.

Presenting the Perfect Platter:

1. Golden Brown Elegance:
   • Arrange the freshly baked Nebraska Meat Pies on a serving platter, showcasing their golden-brown perfection.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
   • Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the pies for a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
3. Serve with a Side:
   • Accompany the meat pies with a side of green salad or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal.

Indulging in Midwestern Comfort

As you indulge in a bite of these Nebraska Meat Pies, relish the combination of flavorful meat filling encased in a buttery, flaky crust—a true Midwestern comfort delicacy.

Navigating Dietary Preferences

This recipe caters to various dietary preferences, allowing you to enjoy the classic Nebraska Meat Pies or opt for the keto and low-carb versions, ensuring that everyone can savor the heartiness of Midwestern comfort.

Savoring the Heartland Heritage

With each bite, you’ll savor the heritage of the heartland, imagining the vast Nebraska landscapes and the warmth of a Midwestern kitchen where such comforting pies are crafted.

the Midwestern Feast

In conclusion, Nebraska Meat Pies are not just a recipe; they’re a taste of the heartland—a savory journey through the Midwest. Whether you choose the traditional version or explore the keto and low-carb adaptations, may each bite be a reminder of the rich culinary traditions that make Nebraska Meat Pies a beloved Midwestern delight.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure to create these savory pies. As you savor the flavors of the Midwest, may Nebraska Meat Pies become a cherished tradition in your home. Happy baking and bon appétit!