Jamaican beef patties are a mouthwatering treat that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean right to your kitchen! Imagine a golden, flaky crust enveloping a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, mixed with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a hint of heat from scotch bonnet peppers. These delightful pastries are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a hearty meal. With a simple yet delicious recipe, you can create these irresistible patties at home, using flavorful substitutes that keep the essence of Jamaica alive. Get ready to savor every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Experience the authentic taste of Jamaica right at home.
- Enjoy a flaky, golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
- Customize the filling to suit your taste—spice it up or keep it mild!
- Perfect for parties, snacks, or a quick meal on the go.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have!

jamaican beef patties
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of turmeric for that lovely golden color. Cut in ½ cup of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ½ cup of cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead gently, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of allspice, and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Cook for another 5 minutes, then let it cool.
- Once chilled, divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion on a floured surface until about ¼ inch thick. Cut out circles using a 6-inch round cutter.
- Place a generous spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, and crimp with a fork for extra flair!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with an egg wash (1 beaten egg) for a golden finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the patties cool slightly before diving in. Serve them warm and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category: | Snack |
Cuisine: | Jamaican |
Prep Time: | 30 minutes |
Cook Time: | 25 minutes |
Total Time: | 55 minutes |
Dietary: | Gluten-free option available |
Serves: | 4 |
Best Served: | Hot with dipping sauce |
Ingredients

- All-purpose flour – a key ingredient for creating a flaky pastry crust.
- Salt – enhances the flavor of the dough and filling.
- Butter – adds richness and a tender texture to the pastry.
- Ground beef – the main protein that provides a hearty filling.
- Onion – adds sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
- Garlic – infuses the filling with aromatic flavor.
- Scotch bonnet pepper – gives a spicy kick, but adjust to your heat preference.
- Thyme – adds a fragrant herbal note to the filling.
- Black pepper – enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Beef broth – keeps the filling moist and flavorful.
- Egg – used for egg wash to achieve a golden crust.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe

Get ready to create some mouthwatering Jamaican beef patties! Follow these simple steps for a delightful experience.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of turmeric for that lovely golden color. Cut in ½ cup of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ½ cup of cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead gently, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of allspice, and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Cook for another 5 minutes, then let it cool.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once chilled, divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion on a floured surface until about ¼ inch thick. Cut out circles using a 6-inch round cutter.
Step 4: Fill the Patties
Place a generous spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, and crimp with a fork for extra flair!
Step 5: Bake the Patties
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with an egg wash (1 beaten egg) for a golden finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Let the patties cool slightly before diving in. Serve them warm and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
• Use cold butter for a flakier crust; it helps create those delightful layers.
• Don’t overfill your patties; a tablespoon of filling is usually just right.
• Brush the tops with an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
• Experiment with spices; a pinch of allspice can elevate the flavor.
• Let the patties cool slightly before serving; it enhances the taste and texture.
How to Serve
Enjoy your Jamaican beef patties with these delightful serving suggestions:
- Pair with a refreshing side salad for a light meal.
- Serve with mango chutney for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Accompany with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Enjoy with a side of plantain chips for a crunchy contrast.
- Serve alongside a zesty coleslaw for added crunch and flavor.
- Try them with a side of spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
- Pair with a tropical fruit smoothie for a refreshing drink.
- Enjoy as a snack with fresh fruit slices for a balanced treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Proper storage ensures your Jamaican beef patties stay delicious for later enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
Follow these steps to store your leftovers:
- Allow patties to cool completely.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
To freeze your Jamaican beef patties:
- Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped patties in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
For the best texture and taste when reheating:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place patties on a baking sheet.
- Heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
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FAQs
What can I use as a substitute for beef in Jamaican beef patties?
If you’re looking for a meat alternative, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully. You can also use lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to season them well to capture that authentic Jamaican flavor!
How can I make the pastry dough flaky?
Can I freeze Jamaican beef patties?
What dipping sauces pair well with Jamaican beef patties?
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your very own Jamaican beef patties, bursting with flavor and warmth! Making these delightful treats is not just simple; it’s a joyful experience that brings a taste of the Caribbean right to your kitchen. So gather your loved ones, share a laugh, and enjoy every delicious bite. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked! Happy cooking!