Beef and Beer Potpie
It’s about time potpie got a makeover, and our stunning version will earn a spot in your regular weeknight dinner rotation. Browning the beef in a hot cast-iron skillet ensures great color and braising it in beer infuses flavor into every bite. Colorful butternut squash livens up the potpie, but feel free to use carrots, parsnips, or other root veggies instead. The best part, of course, is the flaky golden-brown puff pastry, which is placed directly atop the skillet before the dish is transferred to the oven. Garnish with fresh thyme, and serve warm.
How to Make It
Preheat oven to 425°F. Heat the oil in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Toss together the beef, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of the flour in a medium bowl. Add to skillet; cook, stirring often, until the pieces are browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Add the leeks, carrots, and 1½ tablespoons of the thyme. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 4 minutes. Add the beer; cook 1 minute, stirring to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Whisk together the stock and the remaining flour; add to the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to medium; cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens, 30 to 35 minutes, adding the squash after 15 minutes.
Roll out the puff pastry gently into a 12-inch square. Place the pastry over the simmering beef mixture. Whisk together the egg and water; brush over the pastry. Cut several slits in the center of the pastry. Bake in oven until the pastry is golden brown, about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining thyme.
