When it comes to dinner and meal ideas, the classic pastry - topped pot pie is a well - loved choice. However, today we're going to introduce a mouth - watering alternative that takes the humble pot pie to a whole new level. Instead of the typical pastry crust, this rich beef pot pie is crowned with flaky croissant pieces, offering a delightful and unexpected texture contrast.

Let's start with the star of the show: the beef. For this wine - infused beef pot pie, we highly recommend using refrigerated cooked beef tips. This simple step can significantly cut down on prep time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious home - cooked meal in no time. The use of cooked beef tips also ensures that the beef is tender and ready to be incorporated into the flavorful filling.

To begin making the filling, you'll need to gather a few key ingredients. First, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium - high heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and start to develop a golden color. The sweet aroma of the onions will fill your kitchen, signaling that you're on your way to creating a savory masterpiece.

Next, toss in minced garlic. Garlic is a staple in many savory dishes, and it adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Stir the garlic for a minute or so until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the filling.

Now, it's time to add the refrigerated cooked beef tips to the skillet. Break them up slightly if they're clumped together. As the beef heats up, it will release its juices, which will contribute to the overall flavor of the filling. Cook the beef for a few minutes until it's heated through.

One of the unique aspects of this pot pie is the addition of wine. Pour in a generous amount of red wine into the skillet. The wine not only adds a rich, complex flavor but also helps to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes to reduce and intensify its flavor. The alcohol will burn off, leaving behind a deep, savory essence.

After the wine has reduced, add in some beef broth. The broth will further enhance the flavor of the filling and create a thick, hearty sauce. You can also add in some tomato paste for an extra layer of umami. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let the mixture simmer for a while to allow the flavors to meld together.

To add some freshness and color to the filling, throw in some frozen vegetables such as peas, carrots, and corn. These vegetables are not only convenient but also add a nice crunch and nutritional value to the pot pie. Let the vegetables cook in the sauce until they're tender.

Once the filling is ready, it's time to assemble the pot pie. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature. Transfer the filling into a baking dish. Take some refrigerated croissant dough and unroll it. Cut the croissant dough into pieces and arrange them on top of the filling. The croissant pieces will puff up and turn golden brown in the oven, creating a beautiful and delicious crust.

Brush the croissant pieces with some melted butter. This will not only give them a shiny, appealing appearance but also add a rich, buttery flavor. Sprinkle a little bit of salt and pepper on top for an extra kick.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for the specified time until the croissant crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The aroma of the baking pot pie will fill your home, making your mouth water in anticipation.

When the pot pie is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes it easier to cut. Serve the beef pot pie hot, perhaps with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a well - rounded meal.

This wine - infused beef pot pie with croissant crust is a perfect addition to your dinner and meal ideas repertoire. It's a delicious, comforting dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. So, the next time you're looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy a pot pie, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!