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
Scale
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.
