Golden Homemade Jamaican Beef Patties: A Spiced-Up Island Classic

Bringing a Taste of Jamaica to Your Kitchen

Jamaican beef patties are more than just a snack—they’re a full-blown experience. That flaky, golden turmeric crust wrapped around savory, spiced ground beef is pure magic. Whether you grew up on them or just discovered the joy, making them from scratch hits different. These homemade Jamaican patties bring all the island flavor, no passport needed.

Why You’ll Be Obsessed

Flaky, buttery crust with a signature yellow glow from turmeric
Spiced beef filling with just the right kick from Scotch bonnet and curry
Make-ahead & freezer-friendly so you can snack like a pro
Authentic flavor that beats any store-bought version

Ingredients

For the pastry crust:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
3/4 cup ice-cold water

For the beef filling:

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 scallion, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, minced (optional but authentic)
1 tablespoon ketchup
1/2 cup beef broth
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon oil

For brushing:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, curry powder, turmeric, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water gradually, mixing until dough forms. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Cook the filling: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, scallion, and Scotch bonnet. Sauté until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in thyme, curry powder, paprika, allspice, ketchup, and broth. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 8–10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Cool before assembling.
Roll and fill: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out dough and cut into 5- to 6-inch circles. Place 2–3 tablespoons of cooled beef filling on one half of each circle. Fold over and press edges with a fork to seal.
Bake: Place patties on a lined baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Serve: Enjoy hot with a side of coco bread, plantains, or just on its own.

Patty Pro Tips

Don’t skip the turmeric or curry in the dough. That golden color and flavor are essential.
Cool the beef mixture before filling so it doesn’t make the dough soggy.
No Scotch bonnet? Use a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce, but the real thing adds unmatched flavor.
Want it vegan? Swap beef for lentils or spiced mashed chickpeas.

Final Thoughts

Making Jamaican beef patties from scratch isn’t just cooking—it’s a celebration of culture and flavor. From the flaky crust to the juicy filling, these patties bring warmth, spice, and soul. One bite and you’ll be craving another batch.