What to Serve with Steak Pie
Steak pie is a classic British dish, perfect for a cosy evening indoors or a celebratory gathering with family and friends. My grandma’s steak pie recipe has been passed down through the generations and is one of my husband’s favourite ever meals. It’s the perfect winter warmer and the ultimate in comfort food. Although the steak pie on it’s own tastes pretty amazing, the side dishes you serve alongside it can make all the difference in transforming a tasty meal into an unforgettable one. If you’re wondering what to serve with steak pie then I’ve got plenty of delicious ideas right here.
Classic Side Dishes
Sometimes, the oldies are the best and serving up a classic side dish with your homemade steak pie is simple yet delicious.
Mashed Potatoes
There’s something truly comforting about a creamy mound of mashed potatoes as a side dish for your steak pie, and it’s really easy to make.
Boil peeled and chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them with butter, milk, and a touch of salt and pepper. You can add roasted garlic or grated cheese to your mash for an extra flavour boost. There’s nothing quite like mopping up that delicious pie filling with some creamy mashed potato.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that complements the richness of a steak pie. I think it works really well in the warmer months when you still fancy a steak pie but don’t want a plate full of veg or potatoes with it. It’s really easy to make a classic coleslaw. Combine shredded white cabbage, carrots, and a thinly sliced onion in a bowl. Toss with a dressing made from mayonnaise, a splash of vinegar, and a little sugar. Season to taste with salt, pepper and a pinch of cayenne if you like a hint of heat in your coleslaw.
Green Beans
Green beans are a versatile and healthy side dish option for your steak pie meal. Here are a few ways to prepare them:
- Boil: Cook the green beans in boiling, salted water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and serve with a pat of butter and a squeeze of lemon.
- Sauté: Heat some olive oil or butter in a pan, add minced garlic and sliced shallots, and cook until fragrant. Add the green beans and cook until they’re tender-crisp and coated in the garlic-shallot mixture.
- Roast: Toss trimmed green beans in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in a preheated oven at 220°C (Gas Mark 7) for 10-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelised.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a deliciously indulgent side dish that pairs wonderfully with steak pie. You can simply purchase ready-made garlic bread or prepare it yourself by following these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (Gas Mark 4).
- Mix together softened butter, crushed garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
- Slice a baguette or loaf of crusty bread into thick slices. Be careful not to slice all the way through, allowing the bread to remain connected at the bottom.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on each slice of the bread.
- Wrap the bread in foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the bread is warm and the butter has melted.
Now, you’ve got an impressive array of classic side dishes to serve alongside your scrumptious steak pie!
Vegetable Sides
One of the most common sides to serve with steak pies is vegetables. Depending on the season and what kind of vegetables you like, there are many different options.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a delicious side dish to serve with your steak pie. To make this dish, simply cook spinach in a mixture of butter, cream, and garlic until the spinach is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’ll have a rich and tasty side dish that complements the flavours of your steak pie quite well.
Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions add a sweet and savoury flavour profile to your meal. To prepare these, thinly slice onions and cook them slowly in butter or olive oil and a little brown sugar. This process takes a little time, but the result is worth the wait as the onions will become beautifully golden and sweet. I usually cook my onions for about 15 minutes on a low heat. They make a fantastic accompaniment to your steak pie, adding depth and interest to its overall taste.
Cauliflower Cheese
Boil or steam cauliflower florets until tender, then toss in a cheese sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and grated cheese. Bake this cheesy cauliflower in the oven until the top is golden brown and crispy. The creaminess of this dish works wonderfully with the meaty flavours of the pie.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a lovely addition to the steak pie dinner plate. Toss them in oil, salt, and pepper, and pop them in the oven to roast for around 20 to 25 minutes. The crispy, slightly bitter sprouts will bring a delightful contrast to the rich flavours of the pie, creating a more balanced meal.
Green Salad
A simple green salad is a light, fresh option to serve alongside your steak pie. Mix your favourite salad leaves together and drizzle with a light vinaigrette dressing. The fresh, crisp nature of the green salad will help offset your pie’s rich, meaty flavours, preventing your meal from becoming too heavy.
Green Bean Salad
Green bean salad is another brilliant side dish that pairs nicely with steak pie. Simply blanch green beans and then toss them in a tangy lemon vinaigrette dressing. The crisp, vibrant flavour of the green bean salad will balance the pie’s richness, making for a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience.
Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash is an intriguing side that can be served with steak pie. I have found that it’s hard to get hold of in the UK, but our local greengrocer sell it, I’ve seen it from time to time in Sainsbury’s and I have found it on Amazon too. Halve and de-seed the squash, then roast in the oven until tender. With a fork, scrape the squash to create spaghetti-like strands and serve alongside your pie. The spaghetti squash’s slightly sweet, nutty flavour adds a unique and interesting touch to your meal.
Hearty Side Dishes
These sides are perfect if you want to put together a hearty family meal with steak pie as the main event.
Sweet Potato Fries
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to regular potato fries, sweet potato fries are a great option. Rich in vitamins and minerals, they bring a touch of sweetness to contrast the savoury flavours of the steak pie. To make them even more delicious, try seasoning with a bit of paprika or garlic powder just before baking.
Macaroni Cheese
For those craving something rich and indulgent, macaroni cheese is the perfect side dish to accompany your steak pie. The creamy, cheesy goodness will balance out the meaty filling of the pie, resulting in a match made in heaven. Spice up the dish by adding some crispy bacon bits on top or sprinkling breadcrumbs over before baking.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals, particularly a hearty meat pie like steak. They’re so simple and convenient and the cooking time is only a few minutes too. The sweet and tangy sauce of the beans complements the savoury steak and pastry, making for a satisfying combination. You can stir in some chopped onions and garlic and add a touch of barbecue sauce for extra flavour.
Chunky Chips
Chunky chips are a simple yet scrumptious side dish that goes hand-in-hand with steak pie. The thick-cut chips absorb the steak’s flavoursome gravy, creating a mouth-watering combination. Try seasoning your homemade chips with a sprinkling of sea salt and a bit of rosemary before baking or frying for a unique twist. If you’re in a rush and don’t have time to make your own, frozen chips work just as well.
French Fries
A traditional favourite: French fries are the quintessential side dish for many meals, including steak pie. These thin-cut potato treats, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, are perfect for dipping in the rich gravy that oozes from your meat pie. To add a touch of elegance to this classic side dish, consider serving with a side of garlic aioli.
International Inspirations
If you fancy trying something a little more exotic when you’re wondering what to serve with steak pie, then try an international side dish.
Southern Baked Beans
Add a touch of Southern flair with a tasty side of Southern Baked Beans. These rich, smoky, and flavourful beans are an excellent complement to the savoury flavours of your pie. To prepare this dish,
- Soak dried beans overnight
- Slow cook them with bacon, onions, molasses, and spices
The combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavours will be an instant hit, adding depth and variety to your meal.
Fried Plantains
Bring a taste of the Caribbean to your table by serving crispy Fried Plantains alongside your steak pie. These sweet and savoury treats are:
- Easy to prepare, simply peel and slice ripe plantains
- Fry them in hot oil until golden brown
- Sprinkle with salt or sugar, according to your preference
Fried plantains provide a delightful contrast in taste and texture to the rich and hearty filling of your steak pie, creating a harmonious fusion of flavours.
Mushroom Risotto
Infused with garlic, white wine, and Parmesan, this classic Italian dish is both comforting and indulgent. To prepare:
- Sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter
- Add Arborio rice and toast gently
- Deglaze with white wine
- Gradually stir in hot vegetable or chicken stock, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid
- Finish with a generous helping of grated Parmesan cheese
The earthy notes of the mushrooms and the creaminess of the risotto will complement the savoury flavours of your steak pie, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions – What to Serve with Steak Pie
What is the best veg with steak pie?
When you’re looking to serve veg with steak pie, consider options like buttered carrots, steamed greens, or roasted cauliflower. These vegetables provide a contrast in texture and balance out the steak pie’s richness.
Ideal sides for dinner
For an ideal dinner with steak pie, try some of these mouth-watering sides: homemade chunky chips, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing crunchy salad. These options will help make your steak pie dinner a hit while providing a variety of flavours.
What to Serve with Steak and Kidney Pie
Steak and Kidney pie tastes great with options such as steamed carrots, peas, or roasted root vegetables. These sides can add colour, nutrients, and flavour to your meal, making it more enjoyable for you and your guests.
What to Serve with Steak and Ale Pie
Serve steak and ale pie with buttered carrots, roasted parsnips, or some creamy mashed potatoes. These sides will complement the rich flavours of the steak and ale pie while offering various textures.
Meat pie side dishes
Meat pie works well with a variety of side dishes, like creamy mushroom risotto, grilled vegetables, or even a light coleslaw. Choose a side that complements the flavours of your meat pie without overpowering it, and ensure a balanced meal.
Starters with steak pie
Before tucking into your steak pie, consider serving your guests a lovely starter. Options like a seasonal soup, a Caprese salad, or even some garlic bread will whet their appetite for the main course and create a well-rounded meal experience.
Scottish steak pie accompaniments
To truly enjoy a Scottish steak pie recipe, accompany it with traditional sides like neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes) or perhaps some kale. These sides will help to create a warming and hearty meal, perfect for those cooler evenings.
