Beef, Cheddar and Potato Pie

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 2 carrots, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 2 stalks celery, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
• 1 large baking potato, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup dark beer
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• salt and pepper
• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed but cold
• 1 large egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water

Directions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In a skillet, combine the beef, carrots, onion, celery, garlic and potato and cook, breaking up the meat, over medium-high heat until the beef is cooked through and some liquid has evaporated, about 15 minutes. Lower the heat to medium, add the beer and cook for 10 minutes. Add the cheese, 2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Let cool.

2. 2

   On a floured surfaced, roll 1 puff pastry sheet into a 12-inch round. Place in a 10-inch skillet or deep pie dish. Roll the remaining puff pastry sheet into an 11-inch round. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the meat mixture to the skillet. Lightly brush the edge of the crust with some of the egg wash, then place the second sheet on top. Press edges to seal, then trim to a 1/2-inch edge.

3. 3

   Place the pie on a baking sheet. Brush the top with more of the egg wash and cut an "X" into the pastry. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Bake for 45 minutes, tenting with foil if the crust darkens too quickly. Transfer to a rack to cool for 15 minutes.

4. 4

   **TIP: Bake the pie up to 1 day ahead, then reheat in a 350 degree oven for 20 minutes.**.