Authentic Cornish Pasty Recipe

by Jessica | March 13, 2025 1:36 am

I still remember the first time I had a Cornish pasty—it was in a tiny, family-run bakery tucked away in a charming coastal town in England. I had spent the morning wandering through the narrow streets, dodging seagulls that seemed way too interested in my lunch. When I finally bit into that golden, flaky pastry filled with tender beef, potatoes, and onions, I understood why these hand pies had been a staple for generations. They were warm, hearty, and packed with flavor—essentially a full meal wrapped up in the perfect, portable package. Now, whenever I make them at home, I can’t help but think of that windy afternoon by the sea, my hands wrapped around a pasty, savoring each bite while fending off a very determined seagull.

A Bite of History in Every Pastry

Cornish beef pasties have a rich history, dating back to the days when miners in Cornwall needed a filling, easy-to-carry lunch. The thick, crimped crust served as both a handle and a way to keep the filling warm for hours. Traditionally made with beef, potatoes, rutabaga (swede), and onions, these pasties are a testament to the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients. The combination of buttery, flaky pastry and a savory, well-seasoned filling makes them just as satisfying today as they were for the miners of the past.

While purists argue that a true Cornish pasty must adhere to strict guidelines (like being made in Cornwall to earn the official title), homemade versions capture the same delicious, comforting essence. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or cold as a snack on the go, these pasties are a perfect balance of practicality and indulgence.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Rolling pin
Sharp knife
Baking sheet
Pastry brush
Fork or crimper (for sealing the edges)

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (225g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
½ cup (120ml) cold water
1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

12 oz (340g) beef skirt steak or chuck, finely diced
1 medium potato, peeled and diced into small cubes
½ cup (75g) rutabaga (swede), peeled and diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

1. Make the Pastry

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Gradually add the cold water, mixing with a fork until the dough starts to come together.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly just until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the diced beef, potato, rutabaga, and onion.
Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).

3. Assemble the Pasties

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Divide the chilled dough into four equal pieces and roll each into a circle about ¼ inch (6mm) thick.
Spoon a portion of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
Dot the filling with a few pieces of butter to keep the inside moist.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
Press the edges together, then crimp them using a fork or by twisting the dough along the edge to create the classic pasty seal.
Place the pasties on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Bake the Pasties

Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pasties for a golden, shiny finish.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

Traditional Crust vs. Shortcut: If you’re short on time, store-bought shortcrust pastry works well, but homemade dough gives the best texture.
Meat Options: While beef is traditional, you can use lamb or even ground meat in a pinch.
Vegetarian[1] Option: Swap the beef for mushrooms and add a little grated cheese for extra flavor.
Serving Ideas: Enjoy warm with a side of mustard, pickles, or a simple salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze Cornish pasties?

Yes! Freeze unbaked pasties on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 50-55 minutes.

2. Why is my pastry too tough?

Overmixing the dough or adding too much water can make it tough. Handle the dough as little as possible to keep it tender.

3. What’s the best way to reheat them?

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to keep the pastry crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

4. Can I add gravy inside the pasty?

Traditional pasties don’t include gravy inside, as the vegetables and butter create their own juices. However, you can serve them with a side of gravy for dipping!

Authentic Cornish Pasty Recipe

Cornish beef[2] pasties are more than just a delicious meal—they’re a piece of culinary history wrapped in flaky, golden pastry. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner, a picnic, or meal prepping for the week, these pasties offer the perfect combination of hearty flavors and convenience. Give them a try, and you might just find yourself making them again and again—just watch out for seagulls if you take them outside!