Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty is a classic British dish that features a deliciously flaky pastry filled with seasoned beef, potatoes, swede (rutabaga), and onions. This savory pastry is perfect for a hearty lunch, picnic, or as a main meal with sides. Traditionally from Cornwall, this pasty is packed with flavor and easy to make, even for beginners.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Traditional British Flavor: A classic recipe with authentic flavors from Cornwall.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with meat and veggies, it’s a complete meal in a pastry.
- Perfect for On-the-Go: Ideal for packed lunches, picnics, or as a grab-and-go snack.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make it approachable for home cooks.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for a quick meal option.

Other Recipes
What is Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty?
Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty is a savory pastry made with a flaky crust and filled with a mix of beef, potatoes, swede (rutabaga), and onions. The filling is seasoned simply to let the flavors of the meat and vegetables shine, making it a flavorful and filling British classic.
Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty
For the Pastry
- 500g plain flour
- 125g cold butter, diced
- 125g cold lard (or additional butter), diced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- About 150ml cold water
For the Filling
- 350g beef skirt or chuck, finely diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 small swede (rutabaga), peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty
Step 1: Make the Pastry
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and lard, then rub the fats into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the diced beef, potato, swede, and onion. Season generously with salt and pepper, then mix well.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Divide the pastry into four equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a circle, about 20cm (8 inches) in diameter.
Step 4: Fill the Pasties
Place a quarter of the filling mixture onto one side of each pastry circle, leaving a small border. Brush the edges of the pastry with a little beaten egg. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges by folding them over and pressing down to create a tight seal.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Place the pasties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the pasties to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, either on their own or with a side salad or vegetables.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty
- Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a light contrast to the hearty pasty.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed veggies, like carrots or peas, are a traditional side.
- Pickles: Serve with pickles or chutney for a tangy complement.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comforting meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
- Brown Sauce or Mustard: Adds a tangy element that pairs well with the filling.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty
- Use Cold Ingredients for Pastry: Cold butter and lard create a flaky, tender crust.
- Don’t Overfill: Overfilling can make it hard to seal the edges, so be mindful of the filling amount.
- Dice Ingredients Evenly: Finely dicing the filling ingredients ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Crimp the Edges Well: A good crimp helps keep the filling secure during baking.
- Bake Until Golden: The pasties should be a deep golden brown for a fully cooked crust.
Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty
- Add Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary adds a fragrant twist to the filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms or extra vegetables instead of beef.
- Add Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese inside the pasty adds extra richness.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat.
- Different Meats: Try lamb or pork for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
How to Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty
Wrap each uncooked pasty in cling film, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen by baking at 180°C (350°F) for about 60 minutes.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 5g
FAQs
Can I make Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in cling film and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out for easier handling.
Can I freeze Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasties before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked pasties. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 60 minutes or until golden.
What can I use instead of swede in a Cornish pasty?
If you don’t have swede, you can substitute it with rutabaga or parsnip for a similar texture and flavor. Alternatively, carrots or turnips can work in a pinch.
How do I prevent my Cornish pasties from bursting open during baking?
To prevent bursting, avoid overfilling the pasties and ensure you crimp the edges well to seal them securely. Also, make a small steam vent on top of each pasty to allow steam to escape.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty is a delicious and filling classic that’s perfect for any meal. With a flaky pastry crust and a flavorful filling, these pasties are easy to make and ideal for sharing. Whether you’re enjoying one on the go or sitting down for a cozy meal, this Cornish Pasty recipe is sure to please. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a taste of British tradition!
Print
Jamie Oliver Cornish Pasty
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Cornish Pasty is a savory pastry made with a flaky crust and filled with a mix of beef, potatoes, swede (rutabaga), and onions. The filling is seasoned simply to let the flavors of the meat and vegetables shine, making it a flavorful and filling British classic.
Ingredients
For the Pastry
-
- 500g plain flour
-
- 125g cold butter, diced
-
- 125g cold lard (or additional butter), diced
-
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
-
- About 150ml cold water
For the Filling
-
- 350g beef skirt or chuck, finely diced
-
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
-
- 1 small swede (rutabaga), peeled and diced
-
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
-
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and lard, then rub the fats into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
In a separate bowl, combine the diced beef, potato, swede, and onion. Season generously with salt and pepper, then mix well.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Divide the pastry into four equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a circle, about 20cm (8 inches) in diameter.
Place a quarter of the filling mixture onto one side of each pastry circle, leaving a small border. Brush the edges of the pastry with a little beaten egg. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges by folding them over and pressing down to create a tight seal.
Place the pasties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
Allow the pasties to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, either on their own or with a side salad or vegetables.