If you’ve been on the hunt for an irresistibly tasty treat that’s both hearty and portable, these Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Imagine biting into a perfectly flaky crust that reveals a warm, savory filling of seasoned beef mingling with gooey melted cheese. These hand pies are not only a flavor explosion but also a feast for the senses, making snack time or mealtime an exciting event. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or enjoying them solo, they strike the perfect balance between comfort food and a fun handheld delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and thoughtfully chosen ingredients give these hand pies their magic. Each component plays an important role, from building the depth of flavor to ensuring a delightful flaky crust and that rich, melty cheese pull.
- Ground beef: The hearty base that brings a savory richness, seasoned well to enhance natural flavors.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it adds a creamy texture and bold taste that perfectly complements the beef.
- Pie crust dough: A flaky, buttery shell that encases the filling and delivers satisfying crispiness.
- Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness and moisture, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
- Garlic: Offers depth and a gentle kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that awaken all the ingredients and tie everything together.
- Egg wash: For brushing the crust to achieve that perfect golden sheen and a beautiful finish.
How to Make Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Savory Filling
Begin by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until nicely browned, then add finely chopped onions and garlic to soften and release their fragrance. Season the mixture with salt and pepper and cook until everything melds into a rich, juicy filling. Let it cool slightly before moving on to assembling your pies.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pie Dough
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out your pie crust dough until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out even circles — this makes uniform pockets for your delicious filling. Remember, a thinner dough means a crispier crust but be careful not to make it too fragile!
Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese to ensure each bite is bursting with melty goodness. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
Step 4: Brush and Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the tops of each hand pie with a beaten egg wash; this simple step gives your pies that irresistible golden color and shiny finish. Arrange them on a lined baking sheet, then bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes or until the crusts are beautifully puffed and browned.
How to Serve Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over your hot hand pies to add a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note. A dollop of sour cream or a little drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the flavors even further, offering delightful contrast to the savory filling.
Side Dishes
These hand pies pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, tangy coleslaw, or even a simple bowl of tomato soup, creating a balanced meal. The fresh acidity from these sides cuts through the richness of the pies and keeps the meal feeling light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your hand pies on a rustic wooden board with a variety of dips like salsa, guacamole, or ranch dressing for a party spread. You can also stack them with a toothpick to create an appealing appetizer tower that’s perfect for mingling guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll still maintain good texture and flavor, making for an easy grab-and-go snack or quick lunch.
Freezing
These hand pies freeze wonderfully! After assembling but before baking, arrange them on a tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. You can store them for up to 2 months, baking straight from frozen and adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To enjoy your pies again with that just-baked crispiness, reheat them in an oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes rather than microwaving, which can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a gooier texture. Each cheese will bring a unique twist to your Beef and Cheese Hand Pies.
Are these hand pies suitable for freezing and baking later?
Yes, they freeze excellently. Assemble your pies and freeze them before baking, then bake directly from frozen when you want a fresh batch without the wait.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Definitely. Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can add both nutrition and flavor, making these hand pies even more delicious and colorful.
What dough works best for these hand pies?
A pre-made pie crust or puff pastry dough works beautifully. Puff pastry will make them extra flaky and light, while pie crust offers a classic buttery base.
How can I make the filling less greasy?
Using lean ground beef and draining any excess fat after cooking will help keep the filling from becoming too greasy, ensuring a nicely balanced hand pie.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive into this wonderful Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe and make it your own. Whether for a fun snack, a party treat, or even a casual meal, these hand pies bring warmth, flavor, and smiles to the table. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire. Happy baking and happy eating!
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Beef and Cheese Hand Pies: A Delicious Recipe for Savory Snacks Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings (3 hand pies)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Beef and Cheese Hand Pies are savory, flaky pastries filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, perfect for a hearty snack or meal. Featuring a crispy exterior and a rich, flavorful filling, they are versatile enough to serve as appetizers, main dishes, or picnic treats. Customize them with sautéed vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
For the Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- ½ cup cold water (more if needed)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. If desired, add chopped onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños, sautéing until tender. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Let the filling cool slightly.
- Assemble the Hand Pies: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles roughly 5-6 inches in diameter. Place a generous spoonful of the beef and cheese filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly, crimping with a fork to seal.
- Apply Egg Wash: Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg to achieve a golden brown finish during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden and crisp.
- Serve: Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a snack, appetizer, or paired with a fresh salad for a main dish.
Notes
- For added flavor, try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- You can make the dough ahead and freeze it for up to a month.
- These hand pies freeze well cooked or uncooked; reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of jalapeño or omitting it entirely.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for extra zest.
